Application of image processing on hen tracking in an environmental preference chamber

M. A. Kashiha, Angela Renee Miller, T. G. Sales, C. Bahr, D. Berckmans, Richard S Gates

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Image processing systems have been widely used in monitoring livestock for many applications. The primary goal of this work was to implement an image processing system for use in an Environmental Animal Preference Chamber to detect hen navigation between four compartments of the chamber. One camera was installed above each compartment to produce top-view images of the whole compartment. An ellipse-fitting model was applied to captured images to detect whether the hen was present in a compartment. During a choice-test study, mean ± SD success detection rates of 95.9 ± 2.6% were achieved when considering total duration of compartment occupancy. The above technique was used to monitor ammonia aversion in the chamber. As a preliminary pilot study, different levels of ammonia (0, 10, 20 or 40 parts per million) were applied to different compartments while hens were allowed to navigate between compartments. Using the automated monitor tool to assess occupancy, a negative trend of compartment occupancy with ammonia level was revealed, though further examination is needed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationPrecision Livestock Farming 2015 - Papers Presented at the 7th European Conference on Precision Livestock Farming, ECPLF 2015
EditorsMarcella Guarino, D. Berckmans
PublisherEuropean Conference on Precision Livestock Farming
Pages185-194
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9788890975325
StatePublished - 2015
Event7th European Conference on Precision Livestock Farming, ECPLF 2015 - Milan, Italy
Duration: Sep 15 2015Sep 18 2015

Publication series

NamePrecision Livestock Farming 2015 - Papers Presented at the 7th European Conference on Precision Livestock Farming, ECPLF 2015

Other

Other7th European Conference on Precision Livestock Farming, ECPLF 2015
Country/TerritoryItaly
CityMilan
Period9/15/159/18/15

Keywords

  • Ammonia aversion
  • Animal behavior
  • Choice test
  • Laying hen
  • Occupancy analysis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Animal Science and Zoology

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