Three Types of Siloelage Feeders for Cattle

silage feeders for cattle

In this article, we’ll look at Sorghum silage feeders, Round hay bale feeders, and Fence line feed bunks. While all of these are helpful, it’s especially important to understand the differences between them. The benefits of each one are discussed below. When choosing one, keep in mind that each one is ideal for specific uses. Choosing the right feeder for your operation depends on a few factors.

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Contents

Slant bar feeders

Slant bar silage feeders for cattle are very convenient to use in feeding cattle. They are typically 1.45 metres in height and can be cut to lengths of 1.625 m and offset by 764 mm on either side. Each feeder has seventeen slant bars. The bottom of the feeder is tapered and the center peak is wide to channel feed into the tank. Slant bars are also stronger than pipe and can be made out of square tubing, which is 40% stronger than pipe.

The diameter of slant bar feeders varies according to the size of the bales being fed. Smaller models generally have one section, while larger models can be built in two sections and can be stacked inside each other. Slant bar silage feeders are often made without roofs, and their lightweight construction means they are prone to damage from wind. However, they are perfect for feeding cattle and are ideal for a variety of purposes.

Fence line feed bunks

Fence line feed bunks for cattle silage feeding are an excellent choice for farmers looking for an efficient and convenient way to deliver bulky feeds to livestock. These bunks are installed in the feedyard or barnyard and are already in place when it is time to pour grain or silage. The feeder is able to accommodate a variety of forages, including dry hay or silage. These bunks are available in various widths and lengths that are spaced every two feet.

The Stampede Steel Fence Line Feed Bunk is the first steel fence line bunk designed specifically for feedlot operations. This self-adjusting bumper bar makes it an ideal feeder for background cows. Available in 20′ or 24′ lengths, this feeder is the perfect addition to any feedlot or background cattle operation. The Self-adjusting bumper bar and ends attach where needed. The Feeder Fence Line Panel is an easy-to-setup companion for concrete bunks.

Round hay bale feeders

The design of a round hay bale feeder varies widely. In a recent Oklahoma study, researchers discovered that a conventional ring feeder – lacking the bottom skirt or cone – was the most popular choice. They also found that using this method reduced waste by 15 percent while gaining about 0.5 lb./day more weight than feeding the cows on the ground. Cost and weight were the top two considerations, followed by ease of handling and durability. The researchers also analyzed the impact of various feeder designs on the amount of hay consumed by cows, its waste, and the apparent digestibility of the hay.

The most basic way to feed large round bales is by placing the bales in a pasture. This method is the most traditional, requiring no special feeding equipment, but it is the most time-intensive and results in high feeding losses. When feeding several days’ worth of hay at one time, these losses are the highest. To minimize losses, feed one day’s worth of hay each day, but plan ahead to increase labor costs. The average feeding rate of large round bales without a ring or rack is one cow per foot of outside diameter.

Sorghum silage

Sorghum silage is a good alternative for cattle, particularly if you are in the process of transitioning from corn to other forages. In a recent University of Nebraska feeding trial, sorghums are replacing corn silage in the diet of dairy cows. In this article, we’ll review the benefits of this alternative. We’ll also review the downsides. You’ll learn about the advantages of using sorghum silage.

Sorghum is a nutrient-rich forage, which provides energy to livestock. There are many varieties of sorghum, with varying yields and NDF digestibility. They also vary in lodging potential, with the non-BMR varieties having the highest lodging potential, while BMR varieties have the lowest. Forage sorghum varieties should be chosen according to variety test data in the region.