# [Sheep Feeders](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-feeding-equipment-hay-racks-feeders-and-waterers): Types, Selection, and Management for Flock Nutrition ## Key Takeaways - Feeder design directly impacts feed waste, flock nutrition, labor efficiency, and animal welfare, with specific features like solid skirts, appropriate bar spacing (10-20 cm for adult ewes), and protective covers crucial for minimizing hay loss and preventing injury. - Creep feeders are essential for targeted lamb nutrition, requiring adjustable access to exclude ewes and regular cleaning to prevent mold growth in grain or concentrates, which can lead to digestive upset. - Adequate feeder space is critical, with recommendations of 30-40 cm linear space per adult ewe for grain troughs and sufficient access for at least 20% of the flock at hay feeders to prevent competition and ensure equitable intake. - Feed form dictates feeder compatibility; hay requires feeders allowing tearing and pulling, while grain and concentrates necessitate solid-bottomed troughs with anti-waste lips to prevent spillage and contamination. - Regular monitoring of feed intake, waste measurement (above 10% for grain, 20% for hay indicates issues), and body condition scoring are vital for evaluating feeder performance and identifying nutritional deficiencies or management problems. - Common feeder failures include head entrapment due to incorrect bar spacing, feed spoilage from inadequate drainage or cover, and competition exacerbated by insufficient feeder access, all of which compromise animal health and welfare. --- Selecting the right sheep feeder is a management decision that directly affects feed waste, flock nutrition, labor efficiency, and animal welfare. The feeder type must match the feed form (hay, silage, grain, or concentrate), the class of sheep (lambs, ewes, rams), and the housing or pasture system. This article reviews round bale feeders, creep feeders, grain troughs, and hay racks, with design features that minimize waste and injury. Practical assessment steps, record-keeping recommendations, and common failure patterns are provided to help farmers make informed purchasing and management decisions. ## At a Glance: Sheep Feeder Types and Key Tradeoffs | Feeder Type | Primary Feed Form | Typical Waste Reduction Potential | Key Management Consideration | |-------------|-------------------|----------------------------------|------------------------------| | Round bale feeder | Hay or silage bales | Moderate to high with skirted or covered designs | Requires adequate space, risk of injury if bar spacing is too wide | | Creep feeder | Grain or concentrate | High when adjusted for lamb access only | Must exclude ewes, requires regular cleaning to prevent mold | | Grain trough | Grain, pellets, or concentrates | Moderate to high with anti-waste lips or partitions | Requires daily inspection for wet feed and spoilage | | Hay rack | Loose hay or small bales | Moderate when designed with vertical bars | Can cause head entrapment if bar spacing is incorrect | ## Feeder Design Principles for Waste Reduction Feed waste represents a direct financial loss and can contribute to soil compaction, nutrient runoff, and pest attraction. The design of the feeder influences how much feed is trampled, soiled, or refused. ### Round Bale Feeder Design and Waste Research published in *Animal* examined the effect of round-bale feeder design and roughage type on feed wastage in sheep feeding (Elsevier, 2019). The study found that feeder design significantly influenced the amount of hay wasted. Farmers should select round bale feeders with the following features: - A solid skirt or tray at the base to catch falling hay fragments - Vertical bars spaced no wider than the width of a sheep's head (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters for adult ewes) - A covered top to protect hay from rain, which reduces spoilage and refusal Without these features, sheep can pull large clumps of hay onto the ground, where it is trampled and contaminated with manure. Waste rates can exceed 30 percent with open ring feeders. ### Creep Feeder Design for Lambs Creep feeders allow lambs access to grain or concentrate while excluding ewes. This practice supports lamb growth and reduces competition at the feed bunk. Key design elements include: - Adjustable bar height or width that allows lambs to enter but blocks ewes - A covered trough to keep feed dry and reduce bird access - Smooth edges and no sharp protrusions to prevent injury The feeder should be placed in a well-drained area that lambs can easily find. Regular cleaning is necessary because wet grain can mold quickly and cause digestive upset. ### Grain Trough Design for Concentrates Grain troughs are used for feeding pellets, whole grains, or mixed concentrates. Design features that reduce waste include: - A lip or flange on the inside edge to prevent sheep from pushing feed out - Partitions or dividers to reduce competition and allow multiple sheep to eat simultaneously - A rounded bottom to prevent feed accumulation in corners Troughs should be positioned at a height that allows sheep to eat comfortably without straining. For adult sheep, the trough rim should be approximately 30 to 40 centimeters above the ground. ### Hay Rack Design for Loose Hay Hay racks are used for feeding loose hay or small square bales. The most effective designs have vertical bars spaced 10 to 15 centimeters apart. This spacing allows sheep to pull hay through but prevents them from climbing into the rack or becoming trapped. Racks should be mounted on a solid base or placed on a concrete pad to reduce mud and manure contamination. Hay racks without a bottom tray can waste significant amounts of hay as sheep pull it onto the ground. ## Matching Feeder Type to Flock Size and Class The feeder must match the number and type of sheep being fed. Overcrowding at the feeder leads to competition, injury, and uneven feed intake. ### Feeder Space Requirements The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides general guidance on feeder space for sheep (USDA ARS). For grain troughs, provide 30 to 40 centimeters of linear trough space per adult ewe. For hay feeders, provide enough space so that at least 20 percent of the flock can eat at one time. For round bale feeders, one feeder can typically serve 20 to 30 adult ewes, depending on bale size and feeder design. If more than 30 ewes are using a single feeder, subordinate animals may not get adequate access. ### Creep Feeder Access for Lambs Creep feeders should be sized so that all lambs in the group can eat simultaneously. A general rule is to provide 2.5 to 5 centimeters of trough space per lamb. The feeder should be placed in a location that lambs can access easily, such as near a water source or in a sheltered area. ### Feeder Placement and Flock Behavior Sheep are social animals and prefer to eat in groups. Placing feeders in open, visible areas reduces stress and allows subordinate animals to approach without fear. Feeders should not be placed in corners or narrow alleyways where [dominant](/blog/careers/dominant-definition-biology) sheep can block access. The USDA National Agricultural Library notes that animal health and welfare are influenced by feeding system design (USDA NAL). Feeders that cause injury or restrict access can lead to poor body condition, increased disease susceptibility, and behavioral problems. ## Feed Form and Feeder Compatibility The physical form of the feed determines which feeder type is appropriate. Using the wrong feeder for a feed form increases waste and can cause health problems. ### Hay and Forage Feeders Long-stem hay requires a feeder that allows sheep to pull and tear the material. Round bale feeders and hay racks are designed for this purpose. Chopped hay or silage can be fed in troughs or bunks, but the feeder must have a solid bottom to prevent loss. The type of roughage also affects waste. Research published in *Animal* found that roughage type interacted with feeder design to influence waste levels (Elsevier, 2019). Farmers should test different feeder and forage combinations to find the most efficient system for their operation. ### Grain and Concentrate Feeders Whole grains, pellets, and mixed concentrates require a feeder that prevents spillage and keeps the feed dry. Grain troughs with anti-waste lips are effective for this purpose. Creep feeders for lambs should have a covered trough to protect feed from rain and birds. Sheep can develop digestive upset if they consume large amounts of grain quickly. Feeders that limit intake rate, such as those with small openings or partitions, can help prevent overconsumption. ### Mineral and Supplement Feeders Mineral feeders should be covered to protect the mineral from rain and wind. Loose mineral can be fed in covered troughs, while block mineral can be placed in a holder that prevents sheep from licking the block onto the ground. Mineral feeders should be placed near water sources, as sheep tend to drink after eating mineral. The feeder should be checked regularly to ensure the mineral is not caked or contaminated with manure. ## Practical Implementation Steps for Feeder Selection Selecting and installing feeders requires a systematic approach. The following steps can help farmers choose the right feeder for their operation. ### Step 1: Assess Flock Size and Composition Count the number of sheep in each management group (ewes, lambs, rams, weaned lambs). Record the age, weight, and body condition score of each group. This information determines the number and size of feeders needed. ### Step 2: Determine Feed Form and Feeding Frequency Decide whether the flock will be fed hay, silage, grain, or a combination. Consider the feeding frequency: daily feeding requires different feeder design than feeding every few days. For example, round bale feeders can hold several days of hay, while grain troughs need daily refilling. ### Step 3: Evaluate Housing and Pasture Conditions Assess the available space for feeders. Indoor feeders need to fit within the barn or shed layout. Outdoor feeders need to be placed on well-drained ground to prevent mud buildup. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides guidance on livestock feeding area management to reduce environmental impact (NRCS). ### Step 4: Compare Feeder Designs and Costs Research different feeder designs and manufacturers. Consider the following factors: - Material durability (steel, plastic, wood) - Ease of cleaning and maintenance - Portability for rotational grazing systems - Warranty and replacement parts availability Request product specifications and, if possible, visit farms using similar feeders to observe performance. ### Step 5: Install Feeders and Monitor Use Install feeders according to manufacturer instructions. Observe sheep behavior during the first few days of use. Look for signs of competition, injury, or feed waste. Adjust feeder placement or design if problems arise. ## Records and Measurements for Feeder Management Keeping accurate records helps farmers evaluate feeder performance and make data-driven decisions. ### Feed Intake Records Record the amount of feed offered and the amount refused each day. Calculate feed intake per animal and compare to expected intake based on body weight and production stage. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides resources on feed intake estimation for sheep (FAO). ### Feed Waste Measurement Periodically measure feed waste by collecting and weighing feed that falls on the ground. Calculate the percentage of feed wasted and compare across different feeder designs. A waste rate above 10 percent for grain or 20 percent for hay indicates a need for feeder adjustment or replacement. ### [Body Condition Scoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/body-condition-scoring-a-tool-for-feed-management) Monitor body condition scores of individual sheep or a sample of the flock. Poor body condition in multiple animals may indicate inadequate feeder access or feed intake. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on body condition scoring for sheep (Merck Vet Manual). ### Injury and Health Records Record any injuries associated with feeders, such as head entrapment, leg injuries, or eye trauma. Also record cases of digestive upset that may be linked to feed spoilage or overconsumption. The USDA National Agricultural Library maintains resources on animal health and welfare monitoring (USDA NAL). ## Common Failure Patterns in Sheep Feeders Farmers should be aware of common problems that reduce feeder effectiveness and increase waste. ### Head Entrapment and Injury Feeders with bar spacing that is too wide can trap a sheep's head. This can cause panic, injury, or death. Bar spacing should be narrow enough to prevent the head from passing through but wide enough to allow easy feed access. For adult ewes, vertical bar spacing of 10 to 15 centimeters is generally safe. For lambs, spacing of 7 to 10 centimeters is appropriate. Farmers should check feeder dimensions before purchase and modify existing feeders if necessary. ### Feed Spoilage and Mold Feed that remains in the feeder for extended periods can spoil, especially in wet conditions. Moldy feed can cause respiratory problems, digestive upset, and reduced feed intake. Feeders with covered tops and good drainage reduce spoilage risk. Farmers should clean feeders regularly and remove any wet or moldy feed. Grain troughs should be emptied and dried between fillings. ### Competition and Dominance Dominant sheep can monopolize feeders, preventing subordinate animals from eating. This is especially problematic with limited feeder space or single-access feeders. Providing multiple feeders or using feeders with multiple access points reduces competition. Creep feeders that allow lambs to escape from ewes are effective at reducing competition for young animals. ### Structural Damage and Wear Feeders can be damaged by sheep rubbing, head butting, or climbing on them. Damaged feeders can cause injury and increase waste. Farmers should inspect feeders regularly and repair or replace damaged components. Steel feeders are durable but can rust if not painted or galvanized. Plastic feeders are lightweight but can crack in cold weather. Wood feeders are natural but can rot and require replacement. ## Welfare and Safety Considerations Feeder design and management have direct implications for sheep welfare and worker safety. ### Animal Welfare The USDA National Agricultural Library emphasizes that feeding system design affects animal health and welfare (USDA NAL). Feeders that cause injury, restrict access, or provide spoiled feed compromise welfare. Farmers should prioritize feeder designs that allow all sheep to eat without competition or harm. Sheep that cannot access adequate feed may develop poor body condition, reduced immune function, and increased susceptibility to disease. The relationship between nutrition and parasite resistance has been documented in research on sheep nematode infection and grazing behavior (PubMed, 2023). Adequate nutrition supports the immune system's ability to resist internal parasites. ### Worker Safety Feeders should be designed and placed to minimize worker injury. Heavy round bale feeders should have handles or attachment points for safe moving. Grain troughs should be easy to fill without bending or reaching into confined spaces. Workers should be trained on safe feeder operation and maintenance. Personal protective equipment, such as gloves and boots, should be used when handling feed or cleaning feeders. ### Biosecurity Feeders can spread disease if contaminated with manure or saliva from infected animals. Farmers should clean and disinfect feeders between groups of sheep, especially when introducing new animals to the flock. Feeders should be placed in areas that can be easily cleaned and drained. Avoid placing feeders in muddy or wet areas where manure accumulates. ## Feed Efficiency and Genetic Considerations Feed efficiency varies among individual sheep and can be influenced by genetics. Understanding this variation helps farmers select feeders that accommodate different intake patterns. ### Genetic Parameters for Feed Intake Research published in *Frontiers in Genetics* examined genetic parameters for residual feed intake, methane emissions, and body composition in New Zealand maternal sheep (PubMed, 2022). The study found that feed efficiency has a genetic component that can be selected for in breeding programs. Farmers who track individual feed intake can use this information to identify efficient animals. Feeders that allow individual feeding, such as those described in research on walk-over weighing crates with concentrate feeders (Elsevier, 2026), can support precision management. ### Feed Efficiency Phenotypes Research published in *Meat Science* examined characteristics of growth, carcass, and meat quality of sheep with different feed efficiency phenotypes (PubMed, 2022). The study found that feed-efficient sheep may have different growth patterns and carcass characteristics. Farmers should consider feed efficiency when selecting breeding stock. Feeders that minimize waste and allow accurate intake measurement support this selection process. ### Breeding Objectives Research published in the *Journal of Animal Science* examined breeding objectives for Targhee sheep (PubMed, 2007). The study highlighted the importance of including feed efficiency in breeding goals. Farmers should consult with breed associations and extension specialists to develop breeding objectives that include feed efficiency. Feeders that support accurate intake recording are essential for this work. ## Seasonal and Environmental Considerations Feeder management must adapt to seasonal changes in feed availability, weather conditions, and flock nutritional requirements. ### Winter Feeding Management During winter, sheep require more energy to maintain body temperature. Feeders must protect feed from snow and ice. Covered round bale feeders and hay racks with roofs are essential for winter feeding. Place feeders on elevated or well-drained ground to prevent ice buildup. Check feeders daily for frozen feed that sheep cannot access. Break up or remove frozen feed as needed. ### Summer Feeding Management In summer, feed spoilage accelerates due to heat and humidity. Grain troughs should be cleaned daily to prevent mold. Hay feeders should be placed in shaded areas to reduce heat stress on sheep. Monitor water intake closely during hot weather. Sheep that eat dry hay or grain need adequate water to prevent digestive upset. Place feeders near water sources when possible. ### [Pasture-Based Feeding](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/pasture-based-feeding-managing-intake-and-supplementation) For sheep on pasture, portable feeders allow farmers to move feeding locations and prevent soil compaction and nutrient buildup. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides guidance on rotational grazing and feeding area management (NRCS). Portable round bale feeders and lightweight grain troughs are suitable for rotational systems. Move feeders to fresh ground after each grazing rotation to distribute manure nutrients and reduce parasite buildup. ## Limitations and Professional Escalation Criteria While proper feeder selection and management can reduce waste and improve nutrition, some situations require professional advice. ### When to Consult a Nutritionist If feed intake is consistently below expected levels despite adequate feeder access, consult a sheep nutritionist. The nutritionist can evaluate feed quality, ration formulation, and feeder design to identify the cause. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides resources on [sheep nutrition](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-nutrition-feeding-for-health-and-productivity) and feeding management (FAO). Nutritionists can also help farmers develop feeding programs that match feeder capacity with flock requirements. ### When to Consult a Veterinarian If multiple sheep show signs of poor body condition, digestive upset, or injury related to feeders, consult a veterinarian. The veterinarian can diagnose underlying health problems and recommend management changes. The Merck Veterinary Manual offers guidance on sheep health management and nutrition (Merck Vet Manual). Veterinarians can also advise on feeder design modifications to reduce injury risk. ### When to Consult an Agricultural Engineer If feeder design is causing structural failures or safety hazards, consult an agricultural engineer. The engineer can evaluate feeder materials, dimensions, and placement to recommend improvements. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides technical assistance for livestock facility design (NRCS). Engineers can help farmers design custom feeders or modify existing ones to meet specific needs. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the best [hay feeder for sheep](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/hay-feeding-for-sheep-quality-storage-and-waste-reduction) to minimize waste? The best hay feeder for sheep has a solid skirt or tray at the base to catch falling hay fragments, vertical bars spaced 10 to 15 centimeters apart, and a covered top to protect hay from rain. Research published in *Animal* found that feeder design significantly affects hay waste levels (Elsevier, 2019). Farmers should test different designs to find the most efficient option for their flock. ### How much feeder space do sheep need per animal? For grain troughs, provide 30 to 40 centimeters of linear trough space per adult ewe. For hay feeders, provide enough space so that at least 20 percent of the flock can eat at one time. One round bale feeder typically serves 20 to 30 adult ewes. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides general guidance on feeder space requirements (USDA ARS). ### Can sheep eat grain from a hay feeder? Sheep should not eat grain from a hay feeder because the grain will fall through the bars and be wasted. Grain requires a trough or feeder with a solid bottom and anti-waste lips. Using the wrong feeder for grain increases waste and can attract pests. ### How do I prevent sheep from wasting hay at the feeder? To reduce hay waste, use a feeder with a solid skirt or tray, vertical bars spaced no wider than the sheep's head, and a covered top. Place the feeder on a concrete pad or well-drained area to reduce contamination. Monitor waste levels and adjust feeder design or placement as needed. ### What is a creep feeder and when should I use one? A creep feeder is a feeder that allows lambs access to grain or concentrate while excluding ewes. Use a creep feeder when lambs need supplemental nutrition to support growth, especially when pasture quality is low or ewe milk production is insufficient. The feeder should be placed in a location that lambs can easily find and access. ### How often should I clean sheep feeders? Clean grain troughs and creep feeders daily to remove wet or moldy feed. Clean hay feeders weekly or when visible mold or manure contamination is present. Regular cleaning reduces the risk of digestive upset and respiratory problems. ### What bar spacing is safe for [sheep hay](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-hay-selection-nutritional-needs-and-feeding-strategies) feeders? For adult ewes, vertical bar spacing of 10 to 15 centimeters is generally safe. For lambs, spacing of 7 to 10 centimeters is appropriate. Bar spacing that is too wide can cause head entrapment and injury. Measure the feeder before purchase and modify if necessary. ### Can I use the same feeder for hay and grain? No, hay and grain require different feeder designs. Hay feeders have open bars that allow sheep to pull hay through, while grain feeders have solid bottoms and anti-waste lips. Using a hay feeder for grain results in high waste and poor feed efficiency. ## Related Farming Guides - [Bale Grazing With Sheep Site Selection And Nutrient Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/bale-grazing-with-sheep-site-selection-and-nutrient-management) - [Rotational Grazing Plans For Sheep Flocks](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/rotational-grazing-plans-for-sheep-flocks) - [Sheep Farming Flock Nutrition Grazing Lambing Parasite Risk And Welfare](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-farming-flock-nutrition-grazing-lambing-parasite-risk-and-welfare) - [Carp Farming Pond Production Feeding And Harvest Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/carp-farming-pond-production-feeding-and-harvest-management) - [Sheep Breed Selection For Meat Wool Dairy And Low Input Systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-breed-selection-for-meat-wool-dairy-and-low-input-systems) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Sheep Grazing Lease: Terms, Rates, and Legal Considerations](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-grazing-lease-terms-rates-and-legal-considerations) * [Sheep Breed Selection for Meat, Wool, Dairy, and Low-Input Systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-breed-selection-for-meat-wool-dairy-and-low-input-systems) * [Sheep Barn Flooring for Hoof Health: Best Materials and Practices](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-barn-flooring-hoof-health-materials-practices) ## References and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/) - [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Relationships between sheep nematode infection, nutrition, and grazing behavior on improved and semi-natural pastures.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36561431). Veterinary and animal science, 2023. - [Goats and sheep are mixed feeders.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3834912). Australian veterinary journal, 1985. - [Management of inappetant sheep during export by sea.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2393370). Australian veterinary journal, 1990. - [Genetic parameters for residual feed intake, methane emissions, and body composition in New Zealand maternal sheep.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36051695). Frontiers in genetics, 2022. - [Breeding objectives for Targhee sheep.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17609470). Journal of animal science, 2007. - [Characteristics of growth, carcass and meat quality of sheep with different feed efficiency phenotypes.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36084489). Meat science, 2022. - [The effect of round-bale feeder design and roughage type on feed wastage in sheep feeding](https://doi.org/10.1017/S1751731119000727). Animal, 2019. - [High potential for competition between guanacos and sheep in Patagonia](https://doi.org/10.2193/0022-541X%282004%29068[0924:HPFCBG]2.0.CO%3B2). Journal of Wildlife Management, 2004. - [Individual and autonomous walk-over weighing crate with concentrate feeder - Development and validation of an improved mobile weighing system for sheep](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compag.2026.111760). Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, 2026. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.