IoT Device for Reduction of Roe Deer Fawn Mortality During Haymaking

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a novel approach in smart farming with the deployment of centrally controlled IoT-scaring devices in meadows with the goal to reduce the killing of roe deer fawn during haymaking. These deaths are due to fawns not actively avoiding threats in their first two weeks of life, employing a defensive strategy of hiding scentless and motionless in order to avoid predation instead. Currently, they are searched and removed from areas to be mowed by hand. Our approach allows for a reduction of the labour required in advance of a scheduled mowing. During field tests, the effectiveness of the devices has been shown in northern Germany.