Swiss Cows Communicate Via Text
Technology has MOO-ved ahead as Swiss dairy cows may now be able to use text messages to tell farmers when they are "in heat," or ovulating.
The Swiss company Anemon developed the system, which employs wireless sensors implanted in dairy cows to track the animals' heat levels. Farmers get a text alert when their cows are in heat so that they can take advantage of mating opportunities.
The heat detecting devices come at a key time for the Swiss dairy industry. Recently, it has been reported that measures used to increase milk production, such as adding proteins, minerals and vitamins to cattle feed, are interfering with cows' metabolisms and making it harder for farmers to detect when they are in heat.
The creators at Anemon hope that these new heat detectors will improve natural insemination rates and save farmers money.
Animal rights' activists have expressed some concern over the invasive nature of the sensors and if they could potentially harm the animals. However, the devices are expected to be released by early next year.
