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How Does the Moocall Calving Sensor Work?

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Written by Angelica Torres
Updated this week

The Moocall Calving Sensor is a tail-mounted motion sensor that measures the movement of a cow’s tail during labour.

When a cow begins to have calving contractions, her tail moves in a very specific way. The Moocall algorithm is designed to detect this distinct contraction-related movement, while filtering out normal tail activity.

How the Sensor Detects Labour

The sensor continuously monitors tail activity and collects approximately 600 pieces of data every second.

This data is analysed by the Moocall algorithm, which looks for patterns associated with contractions during labour.

Once the movement pattern reaches a certain threshold, the system sends a High Activity alert.

Alert Sequence

When the required activity pattern is detected, the sensor will normally send:

1. First Alert – High Activity (Last 1 Hour)
This indicates increased contraction-related tail activity.

2. Second Alert – High Activity (Last 2 Hours)
This is sent approximately one hour later if the activity continues.

Alerts are sent via:

  • SMS

  • Email

  • Moocall mobile app notifications

When Should I Expect the Alert?

The system is designed to detect the transition from mid labour to late labour, which typically provides around one hour of notice before calving.

However, every calving is different.

In some cases you may receive:

Less notice
Fast calvings, often seen in older or experienced cows, may progress quickly.

More notice
If the cow is experiencing difficult labour, the sensor may detect activity earlier. This can happen when:

  • The calf is presenting backwards

  • A leg is stuck

  • The cow begins labour but does not progress normally

Important

The Moocall sensor is designed to detect the majority of calvings, but because every cow and labour is different, the timing of alerts may vary.

If you receive alerts but calving does not progress, it is recommended to check the cow, as assistance may sometimes be required.

Need Help?

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Moocall support team.

πŸ“§ Email: helpdesk@moocall.com

Or call one of our offices:

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