Cameras to detect and address issues on pig farms

Animals modify their behavior in response to challenges posed by their environment. In complex cases, continuous observation of behavior is especially effective for making a diagnosis. To support farmers, the Chamber of Agriculture of Brittany recommends installing cameras on farms. Below are two specific cases where this technology helped overcome factors that were limiting animal performance.

When a problem arises on the farm, numerous sensors allow the environment to be monitored (temperature, humidity, gas concentration, air speed, etc.) to try to determine the cause. However, when these measurements are not enough to find a solution, the ethological study of the animals becomes a complementary diagnostic tool.

Installing cameras allows animal behavior to be recorded 24 hours a day, without causing disturbances from human presence. These recordings are later analyzed (resting times, movements, interactions, access to feed or water, competitive or avoidance behaviors, etc.). The goal is to reveal behaviors that indicate stress or discomfort and also to identify practices that are working well.

Methodology: A rigorous three-stage protocol

1. Technical pre-diagnosis and interview

Before installing the cameras, a diagnosis is carried out to rule out direct technical causes (water flow, rationing, ventilation, stocking density, etc.). An interview is also conducted with the farmer and the technician to understand the problem. This work allows the visual analysis to be guided by identifying the time slots or areas that require more specific monitoring.

2. Video capture

The cameras are independent in terms of storage and power, which reduces installation time and disturbance to the animals. The date of installation, the location of the cameras, and the duration of recording are adapted to the specific problem. The aim is to capture as many relevant behaviors as possible.

3. Sequence analysis and action plan

The videos are analyzed by a pig behavior specialist. The data can be cross-referenced with physical parameters, technical and economic indicators, and management practices. Feedback is then provided to the farmer and technician, consisting of a presentation of the behaviors observed and their causes, using images or short video sequences. This meeting concludes with the development of a specific improvement plan.

Case study #1: Improving performance in free farrowing

On a farm experiencing difficulties after installing free farrowing pens (high loss rates), the cameras detected:

• Sow discomfort caused by a poorly positioned drinking system.
• Sows preferred to lie on a particular side.
• A highly effective protocol for acclimating piglets to the nest.

These observations led to the relocation of the drinking system to reduce discomfort for the sows (verified by cameras after the change). Taking into account lying preferences improved the chances of suckling for piglets when the sow was blocked and reduced the risk of crushing.

Result: Good performance restored and a satisfied farmer!

These videos are the property of the Brittany Chamber of Agriculture.

Case study #2: Heterogeneity in post-weaning

A second farm faced high growth variability during the post-weaning period. The images revealed excessive competition at the feeder, exacerbated by periods when the feeder was empty.

The proposed action plan:

• Adjusted feeding schedules to avoid interruptions.
• Increased the number of distribution points.

These adjustments made it possible to reduce the weight difference between piglets at the end of post-weaning.

These videos are the property of the Brittany Chamber of Agriculture.

A tool at the service of livestock farmers

The installation of cameras complements other types of diagnostics. It is an additional tool for solving complex problems, validating hypotheses, or confirming perceptions.