Les Bowtell
Papers
4
Total Citations
88
H-Index
4
About
Les Bowtell is a leading researcher in precision livestock farming and environmental physiology, with a particular focus on the intersection of heat stress, dairy cow welfare, and automated milking systems. His most significant contribution is a landmark four-part modelling series that systematically quantifies how thermal conditions impact production in robotic dairy farms. Part 1 established thermal comfort indices as reliable indicators of production loss (36 citations), while Part 2 identified specific temperature-humidity thresholds that trigger declines in milk yield and feed intake (26 citations). Bowtell’s work uniquely extends beyond production metrics: Part 3 revealed that heat stress disrupts rumination and milking visit frequency (17 citations), and Part 4 modelled the time constants and cumulative effects of prolonged heat exposure (9 citations). Collectively, his research provides dairy farmers with actionable, data-driven tools to mitigate heat stress in automated systems, improving both animal welfare and farm profitability. Bowtell’s integrated approach—combining sensor data, physiological modelling, and practical thresholds—has made his series a foundational reference for researchers and engineers developing climate-resilient livestock management strategies.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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