Frequency analysis of noise exposure of dairy cows in the process of milking

Abstract

In the environment of farms and farm buildings, cattle are exposed to various unnatural influences. Such an impact is also noise always arising with a certain energy conversion. In cattle farms, the sources of noise are represented by various mechanical equipment and machines that are used for enabling farm operations. The aim of the paper was to analyse the noise levels in dairy cattle production in the environment, during their day routine. Noise levels were measured at two farms with a different technological layout of milking parlour, with a different way of milking. The noise exposure of dairy cows was measured in three locations, namely in the milking parlour, during standing in the area before milking (in the so-called collection room) and directly in the stabling area. Noise exposure was measured during milking and when the milking parlour was turned off. The values were compared with the hearing sensitivity of cattle at selected frequencies (0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 kHz).

Keywords

• hearing sensitivity
• welfare
• cattle
• milk production
• milking parlour