Application of precision agriculture technologies in grazing: example of goats browsing in forest rangelands of Northern Morocco

The aim of this study was to characterize patterns of grazing behavior of goats in Mediterranean forest rangeland. We conducted a one-year study in the Chefchaouen region, Northern Morocco, during two contrasting seasons (spring and summer) using new technological tools. Eight goats were simultaneously fitted with GPS collars and sensors for 3 days during each season. A calibration study and classification tree analysis were used to predict other grazing activities of goats (eating, walking, and standing without grazing). During spring, goats tended to select lower elevation feeding stations (1070 vs 1200 m), traveled a short distance (5.9 vs 8.5 km), and grazed in a small area (12 vs 15 ha). Due to low forage availability and stressful conditions during summer, goats increased walking and lying activities at the expense of grazing (eating). These findings contribute to a better understanding of the grazing behavior of goats in forested rangelands. Overall, the application of precision agriculture technologies in grazing could be useful for better Spatio-temporal management of herds.