Big Bale Feeders

For those that are breaking out their round bales for winter feeding, here are a few tips when it comes to using Premier's Big Bale Feeders.

• We find 4 ft diameter bales to be optimal. 5ft and larger bales leave a core in the center of the feeder (sheep can't reach that far). This core needs to be knocked down by the shepherd. We find the added materials (twine, net, wrap) needed to make smaller bales are offset by the convenience and ease of handling. 
• Remember, these are meant for polled (hornless) sheep and goats. We advise against their use with horned animals and livestock larger than sheep/goats. 
• Do not attempt to lift the panels out of frozen soil with a tractor. This is an excellent way to break welds and bend rods. 
• No more than 8 ewes per panel. Overcrowding leads to injuries. 
• Don't turn out starving livestock with the feeders. Hungry sheep are aggressive sheep.