sophie@rotoiti.com
©sophie moore 2006
| Go To » | Feeders | Hopper | Silo | Solar | Water |
FeedersSpeccialised feeders are built to strict standards to optimize feeding ratios to the amount of hens per flock. The number of feeders in a shed is calculated to the number of chickens so all fowls have adquate space to feed. | |||||
HopperPowered by solar power the hopper runs on automatic, refilling the feeders when they become low. Topped up just once a day it will feed the entire flock for up to 48 hours if need be. | |||||
SiloThe silo is onsite and holds approximately 10 tones of specially mixed grain made with corn and other GE free ingredients. This provides the chickens with all of their mineral needs. It keeps their coats glossy and their egg shells very hard. One silo will last around 4 to 5 weeks depending on the heat (birds do not eat as much when they are too hot, similar to humans.) then it is topped up again by a huge truck. | |||||
SolarThe farm has three solar panels powering four sheds. This is not only a nature friendly way of powering the shed but an economically sound decision. If the house is affected by a power shortage then the hoppers can still function. The solar also powers the lights in the sheds to encourage the chickens to lay earlier in the day, otherwise we would be collecting eggs all day! | |||||
WaterThe chickens have special nipples which when pecked release a small amount of water, one nipple to approximately six chickens, more than enough. The nipples are an effective way to keep the water clean, as it eliminates the chance of contamination from the chickens. The water is collected from rainwater coming off the roof. An alternative source of water is available as well in case of droughts. | |||||