This manger style hay bale handling apparatus comprises a manger shell structure positioned within a structural frame and pivotably mounted to the structural frame and moveable between a first bale retaining position and a second bale retaining position; and wherein the manger shell structure comprises a plurality of curved shaped ribs being spaced apart to form a cradle framework providing longitudinal support for a horizontally positioned round hay bale. Rotatable locking mechanisms rotate the manger shell structure between positions.

An exemplary embodiment includes a plant material feeder for animals including a plant material bunker, a feeder cone and a base.

An exemplary embodiment includes a plant material feeder for animals including a plant material bunker, a feeder cone and a base.

There is provided an autonomous vehicle for pushing feed lying on a floor, comprising a frame; a skirt rotatably connected to the frame, wherein a bottom portion of the skirt continuously contacts the floor to push the feed. The vehicle comprises a sensor assembly for detecting a magnetic field emitted from a magnetic guiding element inserted in the floor and a control unit mounted for directing rotation of the skirt and for guiding the vehicle along a predetermined path formed by the magnetic guiding element. Also provided is an autonomous vehicle with a skirt drive mechanism mounted to the frame for driving rotation of the skirt, and an autonomous vehicle comprising a prism-shaped skirt rotatably connected to the frame. There is also provided methods for installing a magnetically guided autonomous vehicle and for pushing feed using an autonomous vehicle, as well as systems and kits comprising said vehicle.

Here is disclosed a hay feeder for enclosing a cylindrical bail of bay having opposite first and second longitudinal portions. The hay feeder includes a semi-cylindrical housing dimensioned to enclose the first longitudinal portion of the cylindrical bail, the semi-cylindrical housing having a arched bottom and an open top having a rim. A lid is provided which is configured to fit the rim to close the open top. The lid includes a frame supporting a flexible net which is dimensioned to enclose the second longitudinal portion of the cylindrical bail when the lid is closed on the semi-cylindrical housing.

Here is disclosed a hay feeder for enclosing a cylindrical bail of bay having opposite first and second longitudinal portions. The hay feeder includes a semi-cylindrical housing dimensioned to enclose the first longitudinal portion of the cylindrical bail, the semi-cylindrical housing having a arched bottom and an open top having a rim. A lid is provided which is configured to fit the rim to close the open top. The lid includes a frame supporting a flexible net which is dimensioned to enclose the second longitudinal portion of the cylindrical bail when the lid is closed on the semi-cylindrical housing.

A method for producing a straw mat in a living space for livestock, in particular for sows and/or fattening pigs and/or piglets, confined in a straw pen, is disclosed. The method comprises the step of automatically and initially spreading straw, such as defibrated straw, into the living space up to a substantially uniform thickness (d) of the straw mat. Also disclosed is a straw pen and pen building in accordance with the disclosed method.

A method for producing a straw mat in a living space for livestock, in particular for sows and/or fattening pigs and/or piglets, confined in a straw pen, is disclosed. The method comprises the step of automatically and initially spreading straw, such as defibrated straw, into the living space up to a substantially uniform thickness (d) of the straw mat. Also disclosed is a straw pen and pen building in accordance with the disclosed method.

A method and apparatus for storing and automatically feeding livestock having a guided pivoting panel member.

A method and an apparatus providing a combination mineral feeder and livestock sprayer with a mineral feed compartment having a door and a sprayer actuated by movement of livestock into the door. The door includes a roller applicator for imparting liquid treatment to the nose and face of an animal. The apparatus combines a reservoir of chemical into the unit and a pump to the sprayer. The apparatus is secured by a mat or surround attached to the base of the apparatus that accommodates the livestock thereon during use.