Cameras give ‘bird’s eye view’ of bovine respiratory disease Precision technological advancements allow beef cattle feedlot employees the opportunity to monitor and flag cattle showing signs of illnesses like BRD5 December 2023 5 December 2023 4 minute read 4 minute read By: By: University of Saskatchewan North AmericaBovine respiratory disease (BRD), also known as shipping fever, is one of the most common and costly diseases that affect the North American beef cattle industry. Mainly affecting the lungs of cattle, BRD is highly prevalent during the first week or two after animals arrive at a feedlot. “Bacteria, viruses, environmental stressors, immune system status — all of these factors working together in various combinations can create a perfect storm for respiratory disease complex,” says Campbell. Using cameras placed above the pen of the subjects, the researchers observed any behavioural changes that occurred in the cattle following treatment for BRD. We are seeing adaptations coming in industries such as dairy already, so it is probably just a matter of time [for the beef cattle sector],” says Campbell.