Heat detection aid options
Several options and innovations are available to aid heat detection and increase heat detection rates.
Each cow must have a unique number so that it can be readily and accurately identified.
Determine which of the following options will suit your heat detection strategy. Remember, for the best results use a combination of aids and paddock observation.
Tail paint
Correctly used, tail paint is an inexpensive and effective aid for people detecting heat. It is possible to achieve high heat detection rates using tail paint alone, provided the person using it is highly skilled and the paint is maintained appropriately.
A strip of tail paint is applied to the rear portion of the backbone of each cow. Cows on heat will stand when mounted by herdmates or a bull, and the tail paint will be gradually rubbed off as the other animal dismounts.
Heat mount detectors


Pressure activated heat mount detector


A scratch-off heat mount detector
InCalf research has shown that using heat mount detectors can result in higher detection rates than tail paint alone, particularly in herds where less skilled or unmotivated staff are checking for cows on heat. Best results are achieved when heat mount detectors are combined with paddock checks for heat.
Heat mount detectors are applied to the rear portion of the backbone or rump region of each cow. Cows on heat will stand when mounted by herdmates or a bull and the detector will respond to the pressure or rubbing from the mounting animal, becoming brightly coloured and easily recognised.
There are several types of heat mount detectors – pressure-activated ‘tubes’, scratch-off ‘patches’ and electronic devices are now available.
Electronic heat detection
There are a variety of electronic heat detectors in cameras and activity meters.
The heat detection cameras ‘read’ heat from heat mount detectors. The camera systems work in conjunction with drafting systems, so both need to be installed to use the product.
Activity meters are electronic transponders that detect movement and can be attached to the cow’s leg, in an ear tag, or hung around their neck. They record cow movement as cows on heat typically walk more as they are restless, mounting and being mounted by other cows.
The amount of activity is compared to previous days to identify spikes in activity and 'identify' heat. Some brands compare cow activity to the rest of the mob on the same day, and rumination is included in some technology. This can be adjusted for days where there might be a long walk to a back paddock. Check the reliability and durability of this technology before you purchase it, and talk to other farmers with the system to discuss strengths and weaknesses.
Vasectomised bulls
Vasectomised bulls may help identify cows on heat along with other heat detection aids. It is important to have enough bulls so that bulls are not overworked and injured or that they only ride cows with strong heats.
There is an expense to buying the bulls and feeding them and keeping vasectomised bulls on farm increases health and safety risks.