A Saskatchewan ag-tech startup is launching a pilot program to test a new cattle ear tag designed to help beef producers monitor calving and herd behavior using artificial intelligence.
Ori Cattle, based in Edam, Sask., is recruiting producers to test its AI-powered ear tags. The system analyzes biometric and movement data to detect behavioral changes in individual animals.
Reading behavior, not just movement
Most tracking tags focus on location or step counts. Ori Cattle’s system instead focuses on behavioral patterns.
The tag captures movement and physiological signals, then uses AI to establish a baseline for each animal. When behavior shifts from that baseline, the system flags potential stress, discomfort or the onset of calving.
This approach aims to give producers earlier insight without relying solely on visual observation.
Calving awareness and herd oversight
Improved calving awareness is a central goal of the technology.
By recognizing behavioral changes that often occur before labor begins, the system aims to narrow calving windows and deliver earlier alerts. For producers managing large pastures or limited labour, this could reduce night checks and support timely intervention.
The system can also flag unusual behavior that may indicate emerging health or welfare concerns.
Pilot shaped by producers
The pilot program is open to producers with 10 head or more. The company encourages larger herds to help test the system across different management styles and environments.
Participants will provide feedback on alert timing, data presentation and day-to-day usefulness. That input will guide future refinements before wider release.
Data privacy and durability
Ori Cattle says producer control and data security guide the platform’s design.
According to the company, the tags do not transmit location data. Encryption protects all information, and only the producer can grant access to third parties, such as veterinarians.
The tags are built for prairie conditions. A rugged design and short-burst data transmission help extend battery life and reduce maintenance.
Early-stage technology with on-farm potential
As with any emerging ag technology, on-farm testing will determine long-term value.
For beef producers focused on calving management, herd monitoring and labour efficiency, the pilot offers a chance to evaluate whether AI-driven behavioral data can deliver practical benefits under real ranch conditions.
