Early Warning System for Lamb Welfare Using PLF Technologies

This study develops an early warning system for lamb welfare using Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) technologies on Irish pastures post-weaning. Data from 2,051 lambs across five counties include body weight, dag score, locomotion score, fleece condition, and fecal egg counts collected every 2–3 weeks. Environmental sensors, weather stations, and EID-enabled weigh crates support data collection. The goal is to create predictive algorithms for early detection of lameness and parasitism, key welfare challenges in post-weaning lambs. Funded by the EU Horizon 2020 programme (grant 862050), the TECHCARE project aims to improve welfare and efficiency in Irish sheep farming.