Samenvatting

Improving estrus detection accuracy could improve sow conception rates,leading to higher production efficiency. Current observation-based estrusdetection practices are labor intensive and less accurate. Around estrus, bodytemperature and activity change. Therefore in this study a telemetric monitoringsystem for body temperature and activity was tested. Firstly Templant2 sensors(TeleMetronics) were validated under lab conditions for temperatures from 35°Cto 45°C, using a water basin with a Julabo heater and a P600 thermometer.Activity measurements were validated with the sensors attached to a stick,simulating sow movements. Secondly, sensors were attached externally to 4gilts and 4 sows for 30 minutes, testing functionality. Thirdly, activity of sowswas recorded manually for 3 days around estrus. Results showed that under labconditions temperature results of sensors, heater and thermometer were highlycorrelated (linear regression, R2=0,96; slope 1,1). Simulated activitiescorresponded consistently with peaks in sensor values. Activity was measuredreliably with the sensor attached externally to the sows. On the farm, sowsshowed more activity (manual observations, P<0.05 for standing up, lying down,sitting down and walking) the day before insemination. We conclude thatmonitoring activity and body temperature is a promising tool for estrousdetection in sows.