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The feeder is a key part of the system. The design of the entrance, or race, helps the calves to quickly and easily accept the feeder and peacefully drink their milk ration.
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Calf race. |
The side rails include galvanised sheeting so that the feeding calf is protected from stress factors, including other calves. The length offers small calves full protection. Bigger calves are not completely protected and are sometimes forced by other calves to leave the feeder. |
The side rails are adjustable to the appropriate width, which prevents double occupation of the feeder. A special identification device at the front of the feeder prevents incorrect identification. Any animal just outside the feeder will not be identified.
The feeder is delivered with one or two side rails and can be easily adapted to different barn conditions.
For farms that have experienced problems with cross-suckling and calves disturbing each other during feeding (most common with certain mountain breeds, such as Simmental and Brown Swiss), DeLaval has developed a special protection device.
Closing device for calf feeding station.
When a calf enters the feeder, a movable closing device locks the entrance of the feeder so the calf can drink without being disturbed. When leaving the feeder, the calf moves backwards, the closing device opens and the next calf can enter. Studies show that this equipment can reduce cross suckling by up to 90 %.
Working principle of closing device.
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