Researchers have received a $1 million grant to develop an AI camera system that will monitor piglets 24/7 to identify which ones aren't getting enough milk from nursing sows, as larger litter sizes mean some piglets can't access teats and may die before weaning. The system will help farmers intervene early with struggling piglets and measure milk production from individual teats, aiming to reduce piglet mortality and improve both animal welfare and farm productivity.
Researchers have received a $1 million grant to develop an AI camera system that will monitor piglets 24/7 to identify which ones aren't getting enough milk from nursing sows, as larger litter sizes mean some piglets can't access teats and may die before weaning. The system will help farmers intervene early with struggling piglets and measure milk production from individual teats, aiming to reduce piglet mortality and improve both animal welfare and farm productivity.