GB2598754A

GB2598754A - Livestock feeder assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2598754A
Application number: GB2014275.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Duncan McGregor Robert; William Neat Thomas
Original assignee: TECHNEAT ENGINEERING Ltd
Current assignee: TECHNEAT ENGINEERING Ltd
Priority date: 2020-09-10
Filing date: 2020-09-10
Publication date: 2022-03-16
Anticipated expiration: 2040-09-10
Also published as: GB202014275D0; GB2598754B

Abstract

A creep feeder assembly 10 provides creep feed to young livestock, e.g. piglets, whilst preventing adult livestock, e.g. the sow, from obtaining the creep feed. Feed releasing means in the form of a coil spring 108 releases feed from a hopper 80 onto the ground surface below when nudged by the piglet. A barrier structure 110 shields or obstructs the feed dispenser 108 to allow the piglets to access the creep feed but prevent the sow from accessing the creep feed. The barrier forms a restricted-access passage 112 leading from the entry region 114 to the feed releasing member 108 and a separation distance between the outer surface 116 of the shield structure 114 and the spiral feed dispenser 108, together with an internal dimension (height and/or width) of the restricted-access passage 112, prevents activation of the feed releasing means 108 by livestock located outside the restricted-access passage 112. A width restriction imposed by the barrier structure may be defined by a pair of opposed elements, one of which is a wall against which the feeder is mounted.

Description

Livestock Feeder Assembly

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to livestock feeders and a method of providing feed to livestock. In particular, the present invention relates to a creep feeder for piglets and a method of providing creep feed to piglets.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

In livestock production, solid feed may be introduced prior to weaning to encourage the transition to adult feed and to promote weight gain. Providing feed to supplement the diet of animals that are still nursing, also referred to as creep feeding, may stimulate digestive system development in preparation for weaning and also provides an alternative feed source where there is competition for milk (e.g. in a larger litter). Creep feeding may improve weaning weight, and also weight gain and feed conversion ratio after weaning.

Generally, highly palatable, nutrient rich feed is used for creep feeding, which is preferably provided on an ad-lib basis. Such feed is typically of high value, and it is therefore desirable to prevent access to creep feed by adult livestock (e.g. the mother) and to prevent damage to equipment resulting from attempts by adult animals to access the creep feed. Feed must also be protected from water ingress, vermin, birds, insects and the like.

Provision of creep feed may be particularly problematic in a free range outdoor environment, in which livestock have relatively unrestricted access, as it may be more difficult to prevent adults from accessing creep feed. In the context of pig or swine production, one known approach to creep feeding involves providing creep feed outside in a trough or feeder surrounded by a low barrier such as an electric fence, under which piglets (but not adult pigs) can pass in order to reach the feed. With this approach, piglets may expend more energy and spend more time away -2 -from the generally favourable environment of a shelter or ark, which may affect feed conversion ratio and the spread of disease.

It is against this background that the present invention has been devised.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a livestock feeder assembly for providing feed to livestock, the feeder assembly comprising: feed releasing means for releasing feed from a feed reservoir, wherein the feed releasing means is activated to release feed by abutment of the feed releasing means by livestock; and a shield structure for shielding the feed releasing means, the shield structure defining a restricted access passage comprising an entry region, the entry region being defined by at least a part of an outer surface of the shield structure, the restricted access passage leading from the entry region to the feed releasing means, in which, a separation distance between the outer surface and the feed releasing means together with an internal dimension of the restricted access passage prevents activation of the feed releasing means by livestock located outside the restricted access passage, and wherein the internal dimension of the restricted access passage enables access to the feed releasing means by young livestock and prevents access to the feed releasing means by adult livestock.

Preferably the restricted access passage (more preferably the internal dimension of the restricted access passage) may be dimensioned/sized to allow the young livestock (piglets) to walk along (preferably through) the restricted access passage and to activate (preferably contact) the feed releasing means and the restricted access passage (preferably the internal dimension of the restricted access passage) may be dimensioned to prevent the adult livestock (pig/sow) and from walking along (preferably through) the restricted access passage and subsequently being able to activate (preferably contact) the feed releasing means. -3 -

The outer edge surface may comprise an outer edge. The outer surface may comprise an abutment surface and the abutment surface may be arranged to abut a part of adult (oversized) livestock to physically prevent the access of the livestock into the restricted access passage. Preferably the entry region comprises two opposing abutment surfaces (which may define a restricted width and/or height) for the entry region and/or the restricted passage which may abut at least a part of adult (oversized) livestock to physically prevent the access of the livestock into the restricted access passage. An upper shield member may provide an upper abutment surface to abut an upper part of adult (oversized) livestock to physically prevent the access of the livestock into the restricted access passage. This may set/define a maximum allowable height of livestock which can enter and move along the restricted access passage.

Preferably the shield structure comprises an upper shield member. The upper shield member may provide the outer surface (an outer edge) of the shield structure to define the entry region. A height of the restricted access passage may be defined between a ground surface and the upper shield member. The height may provide the internal dimension of the restricted access passage to prevent access to (and/or activation of) the feed releasing means by adult livestock Preferably the shield structure comprises a lateral shield member. The lateral shield member may provide the outer surface (an outer edge) of the shield structure to define the entry region. A width of the restricted access passage may be defined between a (lateral) support surface and the lateral shield member. The width may provide the internal dimension of the restricted access passage to prevent access to (and/or activation of) the feed releasing means by adult livestock.

The height and the width of the restricted access passage may both prevent activation of and/or restrict access to the feed releasing means.

An outer surface (an outer edge) of the lateral shield member and an outer surface -4 - (an outer edge) of the upper shield member may both define at least a part of the entry region to the restricted access passage.

The height may be greater than 150mm and preferably is greater than 250mm. The 5 height may be less than 450mm and preferably is less than 300mm.

The width may be greater than 100mm and preferably is greater than 180mm. the width may be less than 300mm and preferably is less than 220mm.

The separation distance may greater than 150mm and preferably is greater than 200mm. The separation distance may be less than 1000mm and preferably is less than 600mm.

A lower surface of the feed releasing means may be spaced from a ground surface 15 by greater than 100mm and preferably by greater than 210mm. A lower surface of the feed releasing means may be spaced from a ground surface by less than 400mm and preferably by less than 260mm.

The (lateral) support surface may comprise a second lateral shield member in order for the shield structure to comprise a first lateral shield member and a second lateral shield member. The first lateral shield member may be secured to the second lateral shield member to define a width of the restricted access passage.

An upper shield member may extend between the first lateral shield member and 25 the second lateral shield member. The upper shield member may be supported above a ground surface to define a height of the restricted access passage.

An outer surface (an outer edge) of the first lateral shield member, an outer surface (an outer edge) of the second lateral shield member and an outer surface (an outer 30 edge) of the upper shield member may define at least a part of the entry region to the restricted access passage. -5 -

The (lateral) support surface may comprise a support surface provided by a livestock shelter.

The entry region may enable livestock below a maximum dimension (size) to enter the restricted access passage and move/walk to the feed releasing means. The entry region may prevent livestock above a maximum dimension (size) to enter the restricted access passage and move/walk to the feed releasing means. Specifically, the entry region may young livestock to enter the restricted access passage and move/walk to the feed releasing means and prevent adult livestock (normal full size) entering into and moving/walking to the feed releasing means.

When activated, the feed releasing means may release feed on to a ground surface located therebelow.

The shield structure comprising a first lateral shield member, a second lateral shield member and an upper shield member.

The livestock feeder assembly may comprise the reservoir for storing feed.

The livestock feeder assembly may be arranged, in use, to be mounted to a support surface. The support surface may comprise a livestock shelter. The livestock shelter may comprise a pig ark.

The shield structure may comprise a first lateral shield member and a second lateral 25 shield member. The two lateral shield members may be spaced apart. The two lateral shield members may be parallel. The two lateral shield members may define the restricted access passage to the feed releasing means.

A first lateral shield member may comprise a plate.

A second lateral shield member may be provided by the support surface. The lateral second shield member may comprise a (front/internal) wall of a shelter. -6 -

The shield structure may comprise a support assembly for the feeder.

The feeder may be releasably mounted to the support assembly.

The feeder may comprise a feeder body.

The support assembly may comprise a first opening for receiving part of the feeder body.

The feeder body may releasably secured to the support assembly by a retaining mechanism. The retaining mechanism may comprise a sliding catch.

The feeder body may comprise at least one blocking member. The blocking 15 member may be arranged to abut part of a retaining mechanism when the retaining mechanism is in a closed position to prevent removal of the feeder body from the support assembly.

The feeder body may comprise a reservoir for storing feed.

Preferably the reservoir is provided by a hopper. The hopper may comprise a chute. At least part of the feed releasing means may be disposed in the chute.

The feed releasing means may comprise a spring feeder.

The livestock feeder assembly may define a feeding space which may located below the feed releasing means. The feed releasing means may be arranged to release feed (upon activation) into the feeding space and preferably activation of the feed releasing means causes feed to fall/drop down into the feeding space. The feeding space may comprise an area of the ground surface located below the feed releasing means. -7 -

The shield structure may comprise an upper shield member which may comprise a baffle.

The livestock feeder assembly may comprise at least one downwardly sloping baffle adjacent to a feeding space. Preferably the at least one baffle is arranged to restrict access to the feed releasing means.

Preferably a pair of opposed downwardly sloping baffles are arranged to restrict access to the feed releasing means.

The first baffle may extend in a first direction away from the feed releasing means and the second baffle may extend in a second direction (which is preferably opposite to the first direction) and the two baffles may restrict access to the feed releasing means from two (opposite) directions.

The restricted access passage may extend from a first entry region to a second entry region and the first baffle may restrict access to the feed releasing means from the first entry region and the second baffle may restrict access to the feed releasing means form the second entry region.

Preferably a lower edge (surface) of the or each baffle comprises a concave edge (surface).

The livestock feeder assembly may be arranged to be mounted to a wall of a livestock shelter, such that the wall of the livestock shelter provides a second lateral shield member surface and the restricted access passage is defined between a first lateral shield member and the wall of the livestock shelter.

The livestock feeder assembly may comprise mounting means to mount the livestock feeder assembly to a supporting surface, and preferably to a wall of a livestock shelter. The mounting means may comprise a mounting plate and a corresponding fixing plate. The fixing plate may be arranged to be fixed to the -8 -supporting surface. The mounting plate may be secured to (preferably suspended from) the fixing plate. The mounting plate may be located on the opposite side of the restricted access passage to the first shield member. The fixing plate may provide a hook or hooks which may engage with corresponding apertures defined on the mounting plate.

The livestock feeder assembly may further comprise a first lateral shield member and a second lateral shield member, wherein the second lateral shield member provides a supporting surface such that the feeder assembly is a standalone unit.

Preferably the restricted access passage is sized to allow piglets to access a feeding space, whilst precluding access along the restricted access passage for adult pigs.

The feeder assembly may comprise a first entry region and a second entry region.

The feed releasing means may be located centrally between the first entry region and the second entry region. The restricted access passage may extend from the first entry region to the second entry region. The restricted access passage may enable livestock to enter from one entry region and exit from the other entry region. The restricted access passage may enable livestock to enter from the first entry region and exit from the second entry region.

The restricted passage may comprise a walk-through feeding space in order for young livestock to move fully through the restricted access passage.

The reservoir and the shield structure may comprise a unitary body.

The reservoir and shield structure may comprise a single moulded unit.

The reservoir may be laterally offset from the feed releasing means.

The reservoir may be mounted outside a livestock shelter and the feed releasing means may be mounted inside a livestock shelter. -9 -

The reservoir may be connected to the feed releasing means through the wall of a livestock shelter.

The support structure may comprise a curved wall of a livestock shelter.

The reservoir may be shaped to conform to a surface of the support structure.

Preferably an entry region to the restricted access passage is defined by the shield structure and a ground surface. The shield structure may provide first and second lateral sides for the entry region and an upper portion whereby the separation distance between the first and second lateral sides defines the width of the restricted access passage and the separation distance between the upper portion and the ground surface defines the height of the restricted access passage. Preferably the width and/or height prevent the passage of adult (full size/large) livestock along the restricted access passage but allow/enable the passage of young (smaller) livestock along the restricted access passage.

Preferably the restricted access passage comprises two entry regions to the restricted access passage defined by the shield structure and a ground surface.

The shield structure may provide first and second lateral sides for both entry regions and an upper portion (which may comprise two baffles) for both entry regions whereby the separation distance between the first and second lateral sides defines the width of the restricted access passage and the separation distance between the upper portion and the ground surface defines the height of the restricted access passage.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of providing feed to livestock using a livestock feeder assembly, the livestock feeder assembly comprising: feed releasing means for releasing feed from a feed reservoir, wherein the feed releasing means is activated to release feed by abutment of the feed releasing -10 -means by livestock; and a shield structure for shielding the feed releasing means, the shield structure defining a restricted access passage comprising an entry region, the entry region being defined by at least a part of an outer surface of the shield structure, the restricted access passage leading from the entry region to the feed releasing means, in which, a separation distance between the outer surface and the feed releasing means together with an internal dimension of the restricted access passage prevents activation of the feed releasing means by livestock located outside the restricted access passage, and the method comprising allowing access to the feed releasing means by young livestock and preventing access to the feed releasing means by adult livestock due to the internal dimension of the restricted access passage.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a livestock enclosure for pigs, the livestock enclosure comprising a livestock feeder assembly for providing creep feed to piglets and preventing access to the creep feed by an adult pig, the livestock enclosure comprising a barrier for preventing escape of the piglets and the adult pig from the enclosure, the livestock feeder assembly being in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, the livestock feeder assembly being located within a perimeter defined by the barrier.

Preferably the livestock enclosure comprises a livestock enclosure for a single family of pigs and preferably is for a sow and her piglets.

Accordingly, the livestock enclosure may allow the adult pig access to external parts of the livestock feeder assembly but prevents the adult pig from accessing (and activating) the feed releasing means.

The livestock enclosure may comprise a livestock shelter. The livestock shelter may comprise a pig ark.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of providing creep feed to piglets and preventing access to the creep feed by an adult pig, the method comprising providing a livestock feeder assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention within an enclosure whereby the enclosure comprises a barrier for preventing escape of the piglets and the adult pig from the enclosure.

The method may comprise allowing the piglets to walk into (and subsequently along) the restricted access passage and to prevent the adult pig (sow) from walking into (and/or along) the restricted access passage and thereby preventing the adult pig 10 from accessing the feed releasing means.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numbers are used for like features and in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a livestock feeder assembly according to the invention, together with a supporting surface to which the feeder assembly may be 20 mounted; Figure 2 is a perspective view of part of the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1; Figure 3 is an alternative perspective view of part of the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a side view of the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1, mounted to a supporting surface; Figure 5 is a perspective view of an upper bracket and lower bracket forming part of the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1; -12 -Figure 6a is a top view of part the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1, showing a retaining member in a first position; Figure 6b is a top view the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1, showing a retaining 5 member in a second position; Figure 7 is a perspective view of a feeder body forming part of the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1; Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of part of the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 1; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a livestock feeder assembly according to the invention, together with a supporting surface to which the feeder assembly may be 15 mounted; Figure 10 is a perspective view of a livestock feeder assembly according to the invention, mounted to a supporting surface, Figure 11 is a perspective view of a livestock feeder assembly according to the invention, together with a supporting surface to which the feeder assembly may be mounted; and Figure 12 is a perspective view of the livestock feeder assembly of Figure 11;

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention provides a livestock feeder assembly for supplying feed to young livestock, whilst precluding access to feed for adult livestock. The feeder assembly may be attached or mounted to the wall of a livestock shelter.

Figures 1 to 8 show a livestock feeder assembly according to a first embodiment of -13 -the invention.

In the preferred embodiments, the livestock feeder assembly is a creep feeder assembly 10 for providing creep feed to young livestock, specifically piglets, whilst preventing adult livestock, specifically the sow, from obtaining the creep feed. The creep feeder assembly 10 includes feed releasing means in the form of a feed releasing member (coil spring 108) for releasing feed from a feed reservoir (hopper 80) which, when activated, by abutment/contact of the feed releasing member 108 by a piglet releases creep feed which falls on to a ground surface located below the feed releasing member 108. The creep feeder assembly 10 comprises a shield structure 110 for shielding the feed releasing member 108 to allow the piglets to access the creep feed but prevent the sow from accessing the creep feed. In the preferred embodiment, the shield structure 110 comprises a first lateral shield member in the form of a front wall 16, a second lateral shield member in the form of a supporting surface 2 of a livestock shelter (pig ark) and an upper shield member in the form of a lower bracket 20. The shield structure defines a restricted access passage 112 comprising an entry region 114 which is defined by at least a part of an outer surface 116 of the shield structure 110 (for example an outer surface of the front wall 16, the supporting surface 2 and/or the lower bracket 20). The restricted access passage 112 leads from the entry region 114 to the feed releasing member 108 and a separation distance between the outer surface 116 of the shield structure 114 and the feed releasing member 108 together with an internal dimension (height and/or width) of the restricted access passage 112 prevents activation of the feed releasing means 108 by all livestock located outside the restricted access passage 112. Furthermore, the internal dimension (height and/or width) of the restricted access passage 112 enables access to the feed releasing member 108 by young piglets and prevents access to the feed releasing member 108 by the sow.

Referring to Figures 1 to 4, a livestock feeder assembly or creep feeder assembly 30 10 comprises a feeder body 12 and a support assembly in the form of a support structure 14. The feeder body 12 is arranged to be mounted to the support structure 14. The support structure 14 is arranged to support a weight of the feeder body 12 -14 -and to allow the feeder body 12 to be installed and uninstalled from the feeder assembly 10. The support structure 14 is arranged to be mounted to a support surface in the form of a supporting surface 2 so as to support the feeder body 12 adjacent the supporting surface 2. The support structure 14 is arranged to support the feeder body 12 such that access to feed and/or part of the feeder body 12 is restricted, at least in part, by the support structure 14 and/or the supporting surface 2. The supporting surface 2 may comprise a wall. In the present embodiment, the supporting surface 2 comprises an inner surface of a livestock shelter such as a pig ark.

The support structure 14 comprises a front wall 16, an upper bracket 18 and a lower bracket 20.

As can be seen in Figures 1 and 3, the front wall 16 comprises a generally trapezium shaped plate 22 having a longer bottom edge 24 and a shorter top edge 26. The front wall 16 extends upwardly from a base or lower end of the feeder assembly 10, and along a front side 28 of the feeder assembly 10. The bottom edge 24 is provided with a flange 30 which extends along the bottom edge 24 and in a direction generally perpendicular to a plane of the front wall 16. The two side edges 32 of the front wall 16 are each provided with a flange 34 which extends along a respective side edge and in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the front wall 16. In use, the front wall 16 is spaced apart from the supporting surface 2 and extends in a plane substantially parallel to a plane of the supporting surface 2. The bottom edge 24 of the front wall 16 is mounted on or engages with a ground surface or floor (not shown). To reduce the risk of injury to livestock, corners of parts of the front wall 16 are radiused or rounded.

The upper bracket 18 extends between the front wall 16 and the supporting surface 2. Referring additionally to Figures 2, 4 and 5, the upper bracket 18 comprises a generally rectangular top plate 36 having flanged front and rear edges 38, 40 such that the upper bracket 18 has a generally U-shaped cross-sectional profile A front flange 38 of the upper bracket 18 is mounted to a rear face 42 of the front wall 16.

-15 -In this way the upper bracket 18 is secured or mounted to the front wall 16. The upper bracket 18 extends from the front wall 16 adjacent the top edge 26 of the front wall 16. The upper bracket 18 extends rearwardly away from the front plate 22 towards a rear side 44 of the feeder assembly 10, such that the top plate 36 extends in a plane generally perpendicular to a plane of the front wall 16.

The upper bracket 18 is arranged to secure the front wall 16 to the supporting surface 2 in use. A rear flange 40 of the upper bracket 18 is arranged to abut the supporting surface 2 and to be secured to the supporting surface 2. In this way, the upper bracket 18 is arranged to mount the front wall 16 to the supporting surface 2 such that the front wall 16 is spaced apart from the supporting surface 2.

The upper bracket 18 is arranged to receive part of the feeder body 12. Accordingly, a top opening 46 is provided in the upper bracket 18. In this embodiment, the top opening 46 comprises a generally lens-shaped or pointed oval opening 46 in the top plate 36.

As shown most clearly in Figures 6a and 6b, the upper bracket 18 further comprises a locking arrangement or retaining mechanism 48. In this embodiment, the retaining mechanism 48 comprises a catch or retaining member 50. The retaining member 50 is disposed adjacent an end 52 of the top opening 46. In particular, the retaining member 50 is disposed adjacent a corner portion 54 of the top opening 46.

The retaining member 50 is arranged to slide with respect to the top plate 36 so as to reversibly block part of the top opening 46. In particular, the retaining member 50 is arranged to slide between a first, open position, in which the corner portion 54 of the opening is open or uncovered, and a second, closed position in which the retaining member 50 extends over the corner portion 54 so as to block part of the top opening 46. The retaining mechanism 48 is arranged to secure the feeder body 12 to the support structure 14, as described further below. Figures 1 to 6a show the retaining member 50 in the open position. Figure 6b shows the retaining member 50 in the closed position.

-16 -In other embodiments, the retaining mechanism 48 may comprise a pair of catches or retaining members disposed adjacent opposite ends of the top opening 46. Conveniently, where a single retaining member is provided, the retaining member 50 may be disposed at either end of the top opening 46, so as to be easily accessible in use. To this end, as can be seen most clearly in Figures 5, 6a and 6b, the top plate 36 comprises apertures 56 adjacent both ends of the top opening 46, for receiving fasteners for mounting a retaining member 50 to the top plate 36.

The lower bracket 20 comprises a generally rectangular plate 60 having flanged front and rear edges 62, 64. The lower bracket 20 extends between the front wall 16 and the supporting surface 2. The lower bracket 20 is spaced below the upper bracket 18. The front flanged edge 62 of the lower bracket is mounted to the rear side 42 of the front wall 16. The rear flanged edge 64 is mounted to the supporting surface 2. In this way, the lower bracket 20 is arranged to mount the front wall 16 to the supporting surface 2 such that the front wall 16 is spaced apart from the supporting surface 2.

The lower bracket 20 is folded or bent along a fold line 66 which extends between the front and rear edges 62, 64 of the plate 60, substantially perpendicular to the front and rear edges 62, 64. In this way, the lower bracket comprises first and second portions 68, 70 on either side of the fold 66. The first portion 68 extends downwardly from the fold 66 and away from the second portion 70, towards a first side 72 of the feeder assembly 10. The second portion 70 extends downwardly and away from the first portion 68, towards a second, opposite side 74 of the feeder assembly 10. In this way the first and second portions 68, 70 slope downwardly and extend at an angle to one another, in a manner analogous to a gable roof. The first and second portions 68, 70 provide first and second baffles 68, 70, respectively, of the feeder assembly 10.

With this arrangement, the front wall 16, support surface 2 and lower bracket 20 together partially enclose a feeding space 76 of the feeder assembly 10. In this way, -17 -the support structure 14 provides a shield structure the feeding space 76 provides the restricted access passage 112 of the feeder assembly.

The lower bracket 20 is arranged to receive part of the feeder body 12. To this end, a mounting aperture 78 is provided in the lower bracket 20. As can be seen in Figure 5, the mounting aperture 78 comprises a generally circular aperture 78 disposed in a middle portion of the lower bracket 20. The mounting aperture intersects both the first and second portions 68, 70 of the lower bracket 20. The mounting aperture 78 is aligned with the top opening 46.

In the present embodiment, as can be seen most clearly in Figures 1 to 3, the upper and lower brackets 18, 20 and the front wall 16 are provided with holes for receiving fasteners for connecting the upper and lower brackets 18, 20 to the front wall 16 and to the supporting surface 2. In other embodiments, the upper and lower brackets may be formed integrally with the front wall, or may be connected to the front wall by other suitable means such as welding, or by a clip or snap fit arrangement. In this first embodiment, the front wall and upper and lower brackets are preferably manufactured from a sheet metal material.

Referring also to Figures 7 and 8, the feeder body 12 comprises a feed reservoir or hopper 80, and feed releasing means in the form of a feeder mechanism 82.

A body 84 of the bottle or hopper 80 comprises opposing front and rear walls 86, 88 which curve around a hollow interior 90 of the hopper 80. An upper portion 90 of the hopper body 84 comprises side walls 92 which extend transversely between the front and rear walls 86, 88. Adjacent a lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84, the front and rear walls 86, 88 extend laterally beyond the side walls 92 such that the lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84 has a greater width than the upper portion 90. In particular, the front and rear walls 86, 88 adjacent the lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84 extend beyond the side walls 92 and curve towards one another so as to meet and define a pair of projecting fins or blocking features 96 on opposite sides of the hopper 80. With this arrangement, the lower portion 94 of the hopper -18 -body 84 has a generally lens-shaped cross-sectional profile complementary to the shape of the top opening 46. The hopper body 84 is sized to fit in the top opening 46.

The hopper body 84 tapers towards an annular neck 98 provided adjacent an upper end of the hopper 80. The neck 98 defines an opening 100 which is closed by a lid 102. In this embodiment the lid 102 is a screw lid or cap. The lid has a larger diameter than the opening 100, such that the lid 102 fully covers the opening 100 in order to prevent water or moisture ingress. Moisture (e.g. rainwater) which impinges on the lid 102 is directed to run down an outer surface of the hopper 80. The lid 102 may form a seal with the neck 98. Adjacent a lower end of the hopper 80, the hopper body 84 tapers towards a generally tubular chute 104. An outer diameter of the chute 104 is sized to be received in the mounting aperture 78 in the lower bracket 20. In this embodiment, the hopper 80 comprises a moulded plastics material.

The feeder mechanism 82 is mounted in the chute 104. The hopper 80 is arranged to be filled with feed via the opening 100, and to release feed to livestock via the chute 104 and feeder mechanism 82. The hopper 80 is arranged to hold a quantity of dry feed (e.g. pelleted compound feed) which is gravity-fed into the chute 104 and feeder mechanism 82.

An upper portion of the feeder mechanism 82 is housed in the chute 104. A lower edge of the chute 104 extends downwardly beyond the upper portion of the feeder mechanism 82 to form a generally tubular skirt 106, such that the upper portion of the feeder mechanism 82 is shrouded by the skid 106. In this way, water (e.g. rainwater) or other liquids which may run down the outer surface of the hopper 80 may drip from a lower edge of the skid 106. With this arrangement, the feeder mechanism 82 and any feed therein may be kept dry.

A lower portion of the feeder mechanism 82 extends downwardly beyond the chute 104 so as to be accessible to livestock. The feeder mechanism 82 is arranged to release feed when touched or triggered (e.g. pushed) by an animal. In this -19 -embodiment, the feeder mechanism 82 comprises a spring feeder. As shown most clearly in Figure 8, the spring feeder comprises a coil spring 108 which extends downwardly from within the chute 104 to beyond a lower end of the chute 104.

The feeder assembly 10 is arranged such that the feeder body 12 may be conveniently installed in, and uninstalled from, the support structure 14. Figures 1 to 4 show the feeder assembly 10 with the feeder body installed. Figure 5 shows part of the feeder assembly 10 with the feeder body 12 removed.

To install the feeder body 12 in the feeder assembly 10, the feeder body 12 is inserted into the top opening 46 from an upper side of the support structure 14. The feeder body 12 is positioned with respect to the support structure 14 such that the upper portion 90 of the hopper body 84 fits in the top opening 46 and the chute 104 registers with and extends through the mounting aperture 78, as shown most clearly in Figures 2, 3 and 8.

In this arrangement, the lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84 rests on the lower bracket 20 such that the feeder body 12 is supported by the lower bracket 20. The chute 104 opens below the lower bracket 20 such that the feeder mechanism 82 extends into the feeding space 76. In this way, the lower portion of the feeding mechanism 82 is disposed in the feeding space 76 such that the feeder mechanism 82 can be accessed from the feeding space 76. The spring feeder mechanism 82 is arranged to release feed onto the ground or floor of the feeding space 76, from where it can be eaten. In some embodiments, the feeder assembly 10 may comprise a receptacle such as a bowl, tray or trough in the feeding space 76, below the feeder mechanism 82. Advantageously, the feeder mechanism 82 is spaced above the floor at a height such that the feeder mechanism 83 cannot be reached easily by vermin, such as rats. The feeder mechanism 82 is arranged to release a measured quantity of feed when abutted or moved by livestock. Also, the spring feeder mechanism 82 provides a plaything, or source of stimulation which may enrich the environment and improve livestock welfare.

-20 -With the feeder body 12 installed, the wider lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84 is disposed below the upper bracket 20, between the upper bracket 18 and the lower bracket 20. In this way, when the retaining member 50 is moved into the closed position, part of the top opening 46 is blocked, such that the lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84 is unable to pass back through the top opening 46, preventing the feeder body 12 from being moved (e.g. lifted) away from the support structure 14. Movement of the feeder body 12 is blocked by abutment of one of the fins 96 on the lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84 against the retaining member 50. With this arrangement, the feeder body 12 may be retained in the support structure 14, for example to prevent the feeder body 12 from coming loose during transportation of the feeder assembly 10, or to prevent the feeder body 12 from being dislodged by livestock in use. To remove the feeder body 12 from the support structure 14, the retaining member 50 is moved to the open position so that the top opening 46 is no longer partially blocked, such that the lower portion 94 of the hopper body 84 may fit through the top opening 46 and the feeder body 12 may be withdrawn through the top opening 46.

The feeder assembly 10 is arranged in use to permit access to feed for young and/or smaller livestock and to preclude access to feed for larger and/or adult livestock. In this embodiment, the feeder assembly is arranged to allow piglets to access feed, whilst restricting or preventing access to feed by an adult pig (e.g. the sow being kept with the piglets). As can be seen most clearly in Figures 1 and 4, access to the feeding space 76 is restricted by the front wall 16 and the first and second baffles 68, 70 provided by the lower bracket 20. The front wall 16 is spaced apart from the supporting surface 2 by a distance which allows piglets to access the feeding space 76, but which is too small to allow access by the sow. The wider base (provided by the trapezium shape) of the front wall 16 provides a larger floor area of the feeding space 76 whilst allowing the feeder assembly 10 to be relatively compact. The downwardly sloping baffles 68, 70 further help to restrict access to the feeder mechanism 82, in particular from the higher position or direction of approach by the sow. The pitched or downwardly angled arrangement of the baffles 68, 70 provides space underneath the baffles 68, 70 for piglets to access the feeder mechanism 82.

-21 -A lower edge of each of the baffles 68, 70 comprises a convex edge to ease access for piglets and to help prevent scraping which could cause injury.

The feeder assembly provides a restricted access passage with an internal/entry dimension(s) to allow piglets to walk along and through the restricted access passage and to activate, by contact, the feed releasing means. Furthermore, the internal/entry dimension(s) of the restricted access prevents the sow from walking along and through the restricted access passage and subsequently being able to activate, by contact, the feed releasing means. Additionally, the separation distance between an outer surface of the entry region and the feed releasing means together with an internal dimension of the restricted access passage prevents activation of the feed releasing means by livestock located outside the restricted access passage and also prevent a sow walking along the restricted access passage to then be able to activate the feed releasing means.

The entry region(s) of the feeder assembly is defined by outer surfaces (edges) of the shield structure and the outer surfaces comprise abutment surfaces which are arranged to abut a part of the sow to physically prevent the access of the sow into the restricted access passage. In the preferred embodiment, the entry region comprises opposing abutment surfaces which define a restricted width and/or height for the entry region and/or the restricted passage which will then be abutted by at least a pad of the sow to physically prevent the access of the livestock into the restricted access passage.

In the preferred embodiment, an upper shield member provides an upper abutment surface to abut an upper part of the sow to physically prevent the access of the livestock into the restricted access passage. This sets/defines a maximum allowable height of livestock which can enter and move along the restricted access passage. The shield structure also provides first and second lateral sides for the entry region whereby the separation distance between the first and second lateral sides defines the width of the restricted access. The width and/or height prevents the passage of the sow along the restricted access passage but allows/enables the passage of -22 -piglets.

In the preferred embodiment, the restricted access passage comprises two entry regions to the restricted access passage defined by the shield structure and a ground surface. The restricted access passage comprises a first entry region 118 and a second entry region 120. The shield structure provides first and second lateral sides for both entry regions and an upper portion (in the form of two baffles) for both entry regions whereby the separation distance between the first and second lateral sides defines the width of the restricted access passage and the separation distance between the upper portion and the ground surface defines the height of the restricted access passage.

Advantageously, the feeder assembly 10 is arranged to provide a walk-through for piglets. The feeding space 76 is sized to allow a piglet to enter and/or exit the feeding space 76 from either side of the feeder assembly 10. In this way, a piglet can walk fully through the feeding space 76, such that the piglet does not have to turn around or reverse to exit the feeding space 76.

Conveniently, the feeder assembly 10 is arranged to be mounted to a wall of a pig shelter or pig ark. In this way, the feeder assembly 10 can be secured to the shelter so that the feeder assembly cannot easily be moved or damaged by livestock. In this arrangement, the wall of the shelter provides the supporting surface 2. In some embodiments, one or more plates or brackets may be provided on the supporting surface (e.g. on the wall of the shelter) and/or on the feeder body such that the feeder assembly can be readily installed or removed. Accordingly, the feeder assembly may be mounted to the supporting surface by a "quick-fix" or "quick-release" arrangement. Figures 9 and 10 show a variant of the feeder assembly 10. The variant is similar to the feeder assembly of the first embodiment and only differences will be described here. As can be seen in Figures 9 and 10, the feeder assembly 10 further comprises a wall plate 122 and a mounting plate 124. The wall plate 122 is arranged to be mounted to the supporting surface 2 and comprises hook members 126. The mounting plate 124 is arranged to be secured (e.g. bolted) to the -23 -support structure 14, in particular to the upper and lower brackets 18, 20. The mounting plate comprises hook receiving apertures or mounting apertures 128 for engagement with the hook members 126 to retain the support structure 14 to the support surface 2. In use, the support structure 14 is manipulated with respect to the wall plate 122 to insert the hook members 126 into the hook apertures, and the support structure 14 is lowered to engage the hook members 126 with an upper edge of the hook apertures 128 to secure the support structure 14 to the wall plate 122 and therefore to the support surface 2 (ark wall). The support structure 14 may be disconnected from the wall plate 122 by lifting the support structure 14 upwardly and away from the wall. With this arrangement, the feeder assembly 10 may be installed and removed quickly and conveniently. In some embodiments, the support structure 14 may be further secured to supporting surface 2 by a releasable fastener such as a pin or bolt. Being able to remove or unmount all or part of the feeder assembly from the supporting surface may be advantageous where the feeder assembly is used with a stackable shelter, such as some types of arks, so that at least part of the feeder assembly can be detached from the shelter and the shelters can be stacked for storage or transportation.

In other embodiments, the feeder assembly may be connected to the supporting surface using a clip, hook, pin, slot or other suitable connecting means. In some embodiments, the hopper or the feeder body may comprise fittings for securing the feeder body directly to the supporting surface, and the front wall, and/or other parts of the support structure, may be secured to the feeder body.

Figures 11 and 12 show a feeder assembly 210 according to a second embodiment of the invention. Features of the second embodiment which are similar to corresponding features of the first embodiment are indicated by reference numerals incremented by 200. The feeder assembly 210 is similar to that described in the first embodiment, and only differences will be described in detail. In this second embodiment, the hopper 280 and the support structure 214 are integrally formed. In particular, the hopper 280 and support structure 214 are moulded as a unitary body. The feeder assembly 210 comprises a front wall 216, upper support members 217 -24 -and lower support members 219. The upper support members 217 are generally tubular and extend from the hopper 280 towards a supporting surface in use. The lower support members 219 are generally tubular and extend from the front wall 216 towards the supporting surface in use. In this embodiment, the lower support members 219 are disposed adjacent a lower end of the hopper 280. The lower support members 219 extend adjacent opposite sides of the chute 304. In this way, the lower support members 219 are arranged to restrict access to the feeding mechanism (not shown in Figures 11 and 12). In this embodiment, the feeding space 276 is defined in part by the front wall 216, the lower support members 219 and the supporting surface 2. A shield structure 310 is provided by the front wall 216 and lower support members 219. The lower support member 219 provides an upper shield member. The shield structure 310 defines a restricted access passage 312 comprising an entry region 314 defined by part of an outer surface 316 of the shield structure 310.

In some embodiments, the feeder assembly is arranged to be mounted to a curved supporting surface or wall as may be found in some livestock shelters. To fit the curvature of such a wall, the upper and/or lower brackets may comprise curved edges and the upper and lower brackets may extend different distances from the front wall. The front wall may be curved or bent, or arranged to be angled in use with respect to the supporting surface. In some embodiments, the hopper may be curved to match the curvature of an ark wall. In particular, a surface of the hopper may have a convex surface which curves upwardly and away from the supporting surface in use. Additionally, or alternatively, the chute and/or feeder mechanism may be laterally offset from the hopper. For example, the hopper may be disposed laterally inward (i.e. further towards the centre of a shelter) from the feeder mechanism so that the feeder assembly can be mounted adjacent a curved or sloped inner surface of a shelter. In this case, the chute is angled to extend between the hopper and the feeder mechanism.

Advantageously, the feeder assembly 10 is arranged to be mounted inside a livestock shelter. In this way, feed may be provided to piglets whilst the piglets are -25 -being kept with the sow. In particular, solid feed can be provided to piglets prior to weaning, and inside a pig shelter, such as a pig ark or farrowing ark. By providing access to feed within the pig ark, the piglets may be kept in the favourable conditions of the ark in order to increase productivity. Another advantage of mounting the 5 feeder assembly inside a shelter is that the feeding space or restricted access passage may provide a safe zone to protect piglets from the risk of being crushed by the sow. Also known as "over-lying", or "lay-on", crushing of piglets by the sow is a common cause of piglet mortality. The feeder assembly may therefore help to reduce mortality rates by providing a space in which piglets can shelter but which 10 cannot be accessed or intruded upon by the sow.

The hopper 80 is arranged to hold and keep fresh a quantity of feed sufficient for a number of days or weeks supply, for example in the context of a pig ark housing a typical litter of piglets. The hopper 80 may contain enough feed to supply a litter of piglets for several days before the hopper needs to be refilled. In this way, refilling work and disturbance may be minimised. In particular, the hopper may hold enough feed for approximately 7 to 14 days.

In the embodiment described above, the feeder assembly 10 is arranged for use with granular or pelleted feed. In other embodiments, other types of feed, such as porridge or liquid feed may be used with a suitable alternative feeder mechanism. In some embodiments, the feeder mechanism may comprise a ball plunger mechanism or a lever.

In use, the feeder assembly 10 may be mounted inside a shelter adjacent a window or port of the shelter so that the feeder assembly 10 may be accessed through the window by a worker and the feeder body 12 retrieved without the need to enter the shelter.

In some embodiments, the feeder assembly may be mounted outside a livestock shelter, for instance in a "free range" farm environment. For example, the supporting surface may comprise an outer wall of a livestock shelter. In this case, the -26 -weatherproofing features provided by the lid 102, hopper 80, and skirt 106 help to protect the feed and feeder mechanism from moisture.

In other embodiments, all or part of the feeder assembly may be mounted outside a livestock shelter. For example, the hopper may be mounted externally, adjacent an outer side of a pig ark, such that the hopper can be readily accessed without the need to enter the ark. In such embodiments, the chute, or a suitable tube may extend between the hopper and the feeding mechanism through an aperture in the wall of the shelter in order to carry feed to the feeding mechanism inside the shelter.

In other embodiments, the supporting surface may be provided by a rear wall or plate that is not part of a shelter, such that the feeder assembly comprises a standalone assembly. For example, the supporting surface may be provided by a rear wall which is similar to the front wall of the feeder assembly. In this case, the feeder assembly may still be mounted to a wall, or may be rested on or mounted to a floor surface. The rear wall may be curved to fit a curved shelter wall.

The dimensions of the feeder assembly may be such that piglets can access the feeding space in order to obtain feed, but an adult pig (e.g. the sow) cannot. In one example, a width of the feeding space (e.g. the spacing between the front wall and the supporting surface) may be between about 100 mm and about 300 mm and preferably between about 180 mm and about 220 mm. A height of the feeding space (e.g. a spacing between the ground or floor surface and a lower edge of the lower bracket/baffles) may be between about 150 and about 450 mm, preferably between about 250 and about 300 mm. A height of the feeder mechanism (e.g. a spacing between the floor surface and a lower end of the feeder mechanism) may be between about 100 mm and about 400 mm, preferably between about 210 mm and about 260 mm. A length of the feeding space (e.g. a distance between side edges of the front wall adjacent the height of the feeder mechanism) may be between about 300 mm and about 1000 mm, preferably between about 400 and about 600 mm.

The hopper may have a feed storage capacity of about 6 litres.

-27 -Overall, the present invention provides apparatus and a method for providing creep feed to piglets and preventing access to the creep feed by an adult pig. The feeder assembly locates within the livestock enclosure comprising a barrier for preventing escape of the piglets and the adult pig from the enclosure such that the livestock feeder assembly is located within a perimeter defined by the barrier. Accordingly, the sow may be able to access the external surfaces of the feeder assembly but is prevented from being able to access the feed releasing means and to subsequently access the creep feed. In the preferred embodiment, the livestock enclosure comprises a livestock enclosure for a single family of pigs and preferably is for a sow and her piglets. Accordingly, the size difference between the sow and the piglets is clear.

As mentioned above, the livestock enclosure allows the adult pig (sow) access to external parts of the livestock feeder assembly but prevents the adult pig from accessing (and activating) the feed releasing means. In the preferred embodiment, the livestock enclosure may a livestock shelter in the form of a pig ark. The enclosure comprises a barrier for preventing escape of the piglets and the adult pig from the enclosure.

The present invention thereby provides a method of providing creep feed to piglets and preventing access to the creep feed by an adult pig (sow).

Claims

-28 -CLAIMS1. A livestock feeder assembly for providing feed to livestock, the feeder assembly comprising: feed releasing means for releasing feed from a feed reservoir, wherein the feed releasing means is activated to release feed by abutment of the feed releasing means by livestock; and a shield structure for shielding the feed releasing means, the shield structure defining a restricted access passage comprising an entry region, the entry region being defined by at least a part of an outer surface of the shield structure, the restricted access passage leading from the entry region to the feed releasing means, in which, a separation distance between the outer surface and the feed releasing means together with an internal dimension of the restricted access passage prevents activation of the feed releasing means by livestock located outside the restricted access passage, and wherein the internal dimension of the restricted access passage enables access to the feed releasing means by young livestock and prevents access to the feed releasing means by adult livestock.
2. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 1 in which the shield structure comprises an upper shield member which provides the outer surface of the shield structure to define the entry region and a height of the restricted access passage is defined between a ground surface and the upper shield member and wherein the height provides the internal dimension of the restricted access passage to prevent access to the feed releasing means by adult livestock.
3. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 in which the shield structure comprises a lateral shield member which provides the outer surface of the shield structure to define the entry region and a width of the restricted access passage is defined between a support surface and the lateral shield member and wherein the width provides the internal dimension of the restricted access passage -29 -to prevent access to the feed releasing means by adult livestock.
4. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 3 when dependent upon Claim 2 in which the height and the width of the restricted access passage both restrict access to the feed releasing means.
5. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 4 in which an outer surface of the lateral shield member and an outer surface of the upper shield member both define at least a part of the entry region to the restricted access passage.
6. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the shield structure comprises a first lateral shield member and a second lateral shield member and wherein the first lateral shield member is secured to the second lateral shield member to define a width of the restricted access passage, in which, an upper shield member extends between the first lateral shield member and the second lateral shield member and wherein the upper shield member is supported above a ground surface to define a height of the restricted access passage.
7. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 6 in which an outer surface of the first lateral shield member, an outer surface of the second lateral shield member and an outer surface of the upper shield member define at least a part of the entry region to the restricted access passage.
8. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the livestock feeder assembly comprises the reservoir for storing feed.
9. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the livestock feeder assembly is arranged, in use, to be mounted to a support surface and wherein the support surface comprises a livestock shelter.
10. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the shield structure comprises a support assembly for the feeder and the feeder is -30 -releasably mounted to the support assembly, the feeder comprising a feeder body.
11. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 10 in which the support assembly comprise a first opening for receiving part of the feeder body and the 5 feeder body is releasably secured to the support assembly by a retaining mechanism.
12. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 11 in which the feeder body comprises at least one blocking member and wherein the blocking member is arranged to abut part of a retaining mechanism when the retaining mechanism is in a closed position to prevent removal of the feeder body from the support assembly.
13. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 8 or any one of Claim 9 to Claim 12 when dependent upon Claim 8 in which the reservoir is provided by a 15 hopper and wherein the hopper comprises a chute and at least part of the feed releasing means is disposed in the chute.
14. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the feed releasing means comprises a spring feeder.
15. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the livestock feeder assembly comprises at least one downwardly sloping baffle adjacent to a feeding space and the at least one baffle is arranged to restrict access to the feed releasing means.
16. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 15 in which a pair of opposed downwardly sloping baffles are arranged to restrict access to the feed releasing means.
17. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 16 in which a lower edge of each baffle comprises a concave edge. -31 -
18. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the livestock feeder assembly is arranged to be mounted to a wall of a livestock shelter and the wall of the livestock shelter provides a second lateral shield member surface and the restricted access passage is defined between a first lateral shield member and the wall of the livestock shelter.
19. A livestock feeder assembly according to any one of Claim 1 to Claim 17 in in which the livestock feeder assembly comprises a first lateral shield member and a second lateral shield member, wherein the second lateral shield member provides a supporting surface such that the feeder assembly is a standalone unit.
20. A livestock feeder assembly according to any preceding claim in which the livestock feeder assembly comprise a first entry region and a second entry region and the feed releasing means is located centrally between the first entry region and the second entry region, wherein the restricted access passage extends from the first entry region to the second entry region and the restricted access passage enables livestock to enter from the first entry region and exit from the second entry region.
21. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 8 or any one of Claim 9 to Claim 20 in which the reservoir and the shield structure comprise a unitary body
22. A livestock feeder assembly according to Claim 8 or any one of Claim 9 to Claim 21 in which the reservoir is mounted outside a livestock shelter and the feed releasing means is mounted inside a livestock shelter and the reservoir is connected to the feed releasing means through the wall of the livestock shelter.
23. A method of providing feed to livestock using a livestock feeder assembly, the livestock feeder assembly comprising: feed releasing means for releasing feed from a feed reservoir, wherein the feed releasing means is activated to release feed by abutment of the feed releasing means by livestock; and -32 -a shield structure for shielding the feed releasing means, the shield structure defining a restricted access passage comprising an entry region, the entry region being defined by at least a part of an outer surface of the shield structure, the restricted access passage leading from the entry region to the 5 feed releasing means, in which, a separation distance between the outer surface and the feed releasing means together with an internal dimension of the restricted access passage prevents activation of the feed releasing means by livestock located outside the restricted access passage, and the method comprising allowing access to the feed releasing means by young livestock and preventing access to the feed releasing means by adult livestock due to the internal dimension of the restricted access passage.
24. A livestock enclosure for pigs, the livestock enclosure comprising a livestock feeder assembly for providing creep feed to piglets and preventing access to the creep feed by an adult pig, the livestock enclosure comprising a barrier for preventing escape of the piglets and the adult pig from the enclosure, the livestock feeder assembly being in accordance with any one of Claim 1 to Claim 22, the livestock feeder assembly being located within a perimeter defined by the barrier.
25. A method of providing creep feed to piglets and preventing access to the creep feed by an adult pig, the method comprising providing a livestock feeder assembly according to any one of Claim 1 to Claim 22 within an enclosure whereby the enclosure comprises a barrier for preventing escape of the piglets and the adult pig from the enclosure.