As our understanding of animal welfare deepens, the concept of agency – the ability of animals to make choices and exert control over their environment – has become central to discussions of positive welfare. A short-term scientific mission (STSM) conducted in February 2024 by Mehmet Murat Dogusan set out to explore how dairy cow agency can be evaluated across various husbandry systems.
The two-week mission, hosted by Dr. Monica Battini in Italy, provided a unique opportunity to investigate cow behaviour using both direct and indirect observation methods. The research focused on three types of housing systems found on a single farm: traditional cubicles, deep-bedded pens, and compost barns. Each system offers a different degree of freedom and comfort, impacting cows’ capacity to express natural behaviours.
Throughout the visit, Murat participated in a series of expert-led lectures and hands-on training sessions. These included methodologies such as scan sampling and Qualitative Behaviour Assessment (QBA), as well as tools like the BORIS software for behavioural coding and Audacity for audio-based analysis. A key part of the training involved evaluating “comfort indices” and behavioural indicators, such as lying postures and social interactions, which serve as proxies for agency.
Field visits provided first-hand insight into real-world challenges in data collection. Despite one unsuccessful attempt to gather live behavioural data due to unforeseen farm constraints, the experience led to important methodological refinements. Plans are now in place to analyse video footage, with continued collaboration between Murat and Monica’s team.
This mission highlights the importance of cross-border collaboration and training in advancing animal welfare science. Beyond technical skills, Murat emphasizes that the most valuable outcome was the opportunity to work closely with an experienced team whose insights and mentorship expanded his scientific perspective.
The ongoing work promises to contribute valuable knowledge to the field of positive animal welfare by helping identify housing systems that enhance cow agency and wellbeing. As research continues, findings from this collaboration will support more informed, welfare-oriented decisions in dairy management across Europe and beyond.
