Reading University has chosen Revader Security’s range of redeployable CCTV cameras for use in its world-renowned agricultural department.

The university uses cameras to monitor and record groups of Holstein calves on their campus farm, to detect changes in behaviour as a direct result of various stimuli. Items such as broom heads, rubber teats, plastic chains and carefully positioned hay-bags are systematically included, removed and repositioned in the cattle pens.  Calves are also segregated, paired or otherwise grouped periodically to detect any change in their behaviour due to social changes.

Video footage is recorded over a period of about six months, then analysed using various software techniques. It is hoped that these studies will lead to better welfare for calves in the future and ultimately lead to greater milk production.

Revader cameras were selected for their rugged construction, IP67 environmental rating, on-board video storage in full HD for over 30 days and ability to download large files over a Wi-Fi link to a laptop. The integral IR lamps enable continuous video recording 24/7 and with the PTZ (Pan Tilt & Zoom) set to continuous tours of pre-set views, it provides a complete video history of all the calves in the behavioural testing program.

Stuart Caldecourt, Managing Director at Revader Security said: “We were delighted to be able to supply this prestigious university with the CCTV technology they require in order to further their research. Our mobile CCTV cameras are ideally suited to environments such as these, where environmental conditions vary and high performance is paramount”.

The university is aiming to assess the results of the study at the end of the year.