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A device was developed to monitor rectal temperature automatically in cattle for application in research settings. Compared with manual measurement of rectal temperature, this device decreases labor and time requirements and allows data collection without the influence of animal handling or restraint. The device consists of a custom-fabricated aluminum tail harness that supports an indwelling rectal temperature data logger. Materials cost approximately US $300 per unit, and units are completely reusable. Use of this device would increase the conditions under which accurate rectal temperature measurements can be obtained in experiments with cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]