Calf checker is a game changer

A NEW sensor developed through a UK-wide innovation programme led by SRUC is helping dairy farmers prevent pneumonia in calves.

Pneumonitor monitors pen-level conditions before illness can take hold.

It was created by Cumbria-based Isaac Orr and Clyne Albertelli and collects real-time data on the environmental conditions calves experience, measuring temperature, humidity, pressure, gusts, and relative volatile organic compound.

It has support from the Digital Dairy Chain Innovation Voucher Scheme, part of the £21 million Digital Dairy Chain initiative backed by UK Research.

Isaac said: “Farmers and vets know environmental conditions heavily influence calf health, but the challenges measuring them in-pen, where it really matters, mean farmers often aren’t able to make the specific changes to their pens to protect their animals. Pneumonitor provides a practical, effective solution for collecting this vital data right where it counts.

“For farmers, it’s upsetting to witness animals falling ill, and they’re eager to intervene early before things get worse.”

Pauline Murray, from the Digital Dairy Chain, said: “Since the inception of the Digital Dairy Chain in 2023, we’ve had the privilege of supporting ambitious small and medium-sized businesses working to shape a more productive and sustainable future for dairy.

“The success of Pneumonitor shows just how transformative even modest funding can be when combined with innovative thinking and entrepreneurial drive.”