Using an automatic straw-distributor to feed silage to pigs – A potential to increase pigs’ silage consumption and effect on behaviour and cleanliness of the pen (OK-Net Ecofeed video)

Summary in the original language of the document

The test evaluated the effects of feeding silage to pigs with an automatic straw distributor on pig behaviour, silage consumption and cleanliness of the pen. Ley crop silage was loaded on top of the straw in an automatic straw distributor and distributed to the pigs in their loose housing deep litter pen 4-5 times a day. Dry matter content of the silage affected how far from the distributor the silage was spread. Thus, it should not have too large variation in dry matter content. Due to the rather low amount of silage fed per distribution time, the pigs were able to find and consume all the silage. As it was distributed in a large area, it also enabled all pigs to eat silage simultaneously without competition.
The tool is relevant for pig farmers and advisors and can be used in northern Europe climate where conservation of ley crops to silage is common.