Early detection of tail biting in pigs using 3D video to measure tail posture

Tail biting in growing pigs starts without warning. Outbreaks of tail biting result in pain and sickness for

bitten pigs and economic losses for farmers, particularly when infection through tail wounds results in

abattoir condemnation of meat. Recent research shows that pigs’ behaviour changes before a damaging

tail biting outbreak starts. This project aims to develop a ‘smart farming’ product based on the latest

video technology and machine-vision software to automatically detect these changes and warn farmers

so they can intervene to stop tail biting. The project brings together SRUC’s expertise in pig behaviour

analysis, Innovent Technology Ltd’s machine vision software development skills with Sainsbury’s pig

supply chain perspective to ensure that end user needs are met. Experience with on-farm 3D video, and

access to a network of Agri-tech expertise will be facilitated by the Agri-EPI Centre.