Principal Investigator: Jean M. Feugang
Co-Principal Investigator: Caleb O. Lemley
This project, led by Dr. Jean Feugang and Dr. Caleb Lemley, explored the use of thermal infrared imaging as a non-invasive tool to assess thermoregulation and physiological health in cattle raised in semi-arid environments. Originally planned for Kenya or Rwanda, the study was successfully relocated to Cameroon due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, where it was implemented in collaboration with local partners and support from the Ministry of Livestock and Animal Industries.
Fieldwork was conducted in the Adamawa region of Cameroon, where 94 cows across two farms were evaluated using digital infrared thermography and environmental monitoring tools. Complementary samples of blood, feces, and hair were collected for serological, hormonal, and genotypic analyses. The study revealed promising correlations between surface body temperature and physiological indicators of animal health and adaptability.
The project also fostered new partnerships with researchers from Cameroon’s National Institute for Agricultural Research and Development and included outreach through national media. Preliminary findings were presented at MSU’s International Institute Close-Out meeting and are being prepared for publication. A collaborative team including MSU, the University of Edinburgh, and ILRI in Kenya is now working on two manuscripts and identifying funding opportunities aligned with COP27 priorities. This pilot study demonstrated the feasibility and value of thermal imaging in livestock research and laid the groundwork for future international collaborations and grant proposals focused on climate resilience in animal agriculture.