SOUND TECHNOLOGY IN ANIMAL HUSBANDRY TO ASSESS ANIMAL WELFARE, BEHAVIOUR AND PRODUCTION

This thesis describes a methodology of Precision Livestock Farming, to investigate animal health and welfare, through the monitoring of animal behaviours and vocalisations using image and sounds analysis instead of the visual observation methods. The main purpose of PLF is to improve the production efficiency, increasing animal and human health and welfare, through the application of advanced information and technologies, to control the entire production process. This thesis was particularly dedicated to the importance of using new technologies and methodologies to improve animal health, welfare and production.