Authors : G. Abi Rizk , P. Ngo-Hong , D. Fulminet , M.T. Poirel , P. Figwer , A. Alanore and M. Franck
Abstract: This study describes deviated behavioral patterns of sucked veal calves in the western massif central of France by using video photography. Camera video was placed in farms containing boxes with 2 calves in each one. The farms were selected according to conveniences and of frequency of observation of deviating behaviors. Calves were recorded on videotape from week 4 until week 16 to determine frequencies and durations of postures and behaviors (e.g., lying, standing, chewing, tongue playing, grooming, sucking, urine pumping and investigative activities). There were no consistent differences (p>0.05) in postures or behaviors among calves. Calves spent approximately 71 and 31% in lying and standing positions. Depending on the watering method of the stockbreeders, water buckets were placed in front of the door of boxes. Relationships between proportion deviating behaviour, watering method and time since fed milk were examined. Calves showed a significant pattern of temporal cyclicity and in their deviating behavior with the highest average proportion of eligible deviation and hyperactivity at 9:00 and the lowest at 12:00.
G. Abi Rizk , P. Ngo-Hong , D. Fulminet , M.T. Poirel , P. Figwer , A. Alanore and M. Franck , 2008. Using Video Photography to Assess Deviated Sucked Veal Calves Behavioral Patterns in the Western Massif Central of France. Environmental Research Journal, 2: 189-195.