Pembrokeshire farm uses heat detection to improve cattle genetics
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 06:09 · Archive
A Pembrokeshire beef farm is using heat detection technology and artificial insemination to access top bulls and improve herd genetics.
The Davies family farm 300 acres next to the Preseli Hills, running an 80-cow beef business centred on pedigree Limousins and crossbreds. They had used artificial insemination years ago but switched to natural mating because of problems detecting when cattle were in heat and timing inseminations correctly.
In the 2026 breeding season, the family trialled a Tru-Test Active Ear Tag fitted to ten heifers and ten of their best second calvers. The tag uses a beef-specific algorithm that compares each individual animal to her normal behaviour and to the group, to identify if she is in heat or showing early signs of sickness. The tag connects to a gateway unit at their outlying farm, passing data to the cloud and feeding results back to a mobile phone app.
According to the family, the system not only identified heats but provided optimal times for insemination, giving them access to bulls from well-proven lines to improve genetics. The family have also pelvic scored heifers to breed animals that require less management.
How it is being reported
- Heat detection plus AI helps drive genetics in suckler herdHeat detection technology combined with artificial insemination (AI) is giving a Pembrokeshire suckler system access to top ranking bulls and helping to drive genetic improvement.South Wales Guardian · 24 Oct, 05:00
- Heat detection plus AI helps drive genetics in suckler herdHeat detection technology combined with artificial insemination (AI) is giving a Pembrokeshire suckler system access to top ranking bulls and helping to drive genetic improvement.Tivyside Advertiser · 24 Oct, 05:00
In this story: Mark Davies · Catherine Davies · Caryl Davies · Sara Davies · Lowri Davies · Pembrokeshire · Glencross · Preseli Hills
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