AI Insight
Researchers have developed a drone-based artificial intelligence system that can monitor and track cattle growth without requiring physical weighing at scales. The technology addresses a critical challenge in beef production: determining the optimal selling time when animals reach their natural growth plateau, beyond which continued feeding becomes economically inefficient. The system offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional weighing methods that can stress animals and require labor-intensive handling.
Why it matters
This technology could significantly improve economic efficiency in beef production by helping producers identify the precise moment to sell cattle before feed costs exceed weight gain benefits. The stress-free monitoring approach may also improve animal welfare while reducing labor requirements and operational costs in feedlot operations.
Understand the Science
In beef cattle production, determining the ideal time to sell makes all the difference in a producer’s costs. This is because, once an animal reaches its natural growth limit, it stops gaining weight significantly. From that point on, every additional day in a feedlot means spending money on feed without gaining meat in return.
Source: Drone-based AI system tracks cattle growth without stressful trips to scales