Precision feeding focuses on supplying the right nutrients, to the right animals, at the right time. Historically, intake was estimated at the mob/herd level — but research shows variability of up to 25% in intake between individual animals (CSIRO Ruminant Nutrition Review, 2021).
How Sensors Improve Feeding Decisions
Modern sensing technology now allows producers to measure or infer intake and feeding behavior:
| Technology | Monitored Variable | Use Case |
| Bunk Load Cell Sensors | Feed disappearance per hour/day | Feedlot bunk management, TMR delivery optimization |
| Collar Accelerometers | Eating & rumination time | Health alerts and feeding consistency |
| Bolus Temperature Sensors | Core temperature & activity | Early health detection |
| Computer Vision Cameras | Individual intake at feed faces | Precision supplementation & performance modeling |
Research from universities and government programs, including:
- University of Queensland Smart Feeding Trials
- CSIRO Digital Livestock Initiative
- DairyFeedbase (Dairy Australia & Agriculture Victoria)
…has shown that these systems reduce feed waste, detect illness earlier, and enable individualized feeding strategies.
Performance Benefits
- Improved Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE)
- Reduced overfeeding of expensive supplements
- Early detection of subclinical disease
- Better alignment between production goals and ration cost
Precision feeding protects margin while improving animal performance and welfare.