Researchers at Sydney University have developed a four-wheeled robot that can move a herd of cows from a field to a dairy farm.
The robot, known as Rover, was adapted from an earlier one that was being used to keep an eye on fruit and trees on farms, transforming it so it could be deployed in a field to herd cows.
Sydney dairy researcher Kendra Kerrisk told the BBC that the research is in its very early stages but robotic technologies certainly have the potential to transform dairy farming.
"When we have discussed this concept with farmers they have been extremely excited and we have had a flurry of calls and emails asking how they can get hold of one," Kerrisk said.
Researchers also revealed that the robot could trim down the number of accidents involving human beings on farms.
The cows easily identified the presence of the robot during the trial and the herding process was calm and successful, according to the researchers.
