Introduction
Artificially rearing lambs and kids is costly and labour intensive. Investing in a machine to help reduce the labour costs associated with feeding is something to consider. There are various types of milk replacer machines on the market. Which type of machine is best suited for an operation depends on the size of operation, current infrastructure and budgets. This article aims to introduce three types of milk replacer machines.
Automatic Milk Machine (e.g. Grober/Forester Technik)
Automatic milk machines continuously mix small portions of milk replacer for ad libitum milk feeding. A common machine in Ontario is sold by Grober in partnership with Forester Technik. This machine allows for portions to be set and counted and has various features to ensure correct milk temperature for feeding and easy cleaning. Depending on the model, a machine can feed up to 240 lambs or kids across 8 nipples (30 lambs or kids per nipple). Benefits of using an automatic milk machine includes 24/7 access to fresh milk, labour savings and time independence.
Milk Warmer (e.g. Heatwave Milk Warmer)
Milk warmers heat whole or powdered milk on demand for ad libitum feeding. The Heatwave Milk Warmer uses heat exchange technology to warm milk. Reconstituted powdered milk or whole milk is stored cold in a barrel and is warmed as the lambs or kids drink. This system feeds up to 50 lambs or kids, with 12 lambs or kids per teat. Benefits of a heat warmer include hygienic cold storage of milk and labour savings.
Milk Mixer (e.g. MilkTaxi)
Milk mixers prepare milk for bucket feeding systems. A popular milk mixer is the MilkTaxi by Holm&Laue. The MilkTaxi mixes milk replacer or heats and pasteurises whole milk, with an independent power source and stable undercarriage allowing for animals to be fed in remote locations. The MilkTaxi has features that allow for easy cleaning, portion control and data collection. Depending on the model, the MilkTaxi can make 200 to 800 liters per day. Benefits of using a MilkTaxi include reduced labour through convenient and efficient bucket feeding.
Conclusion
There are various styles of milk replacer machines on the market. Which machine is best suited to an operation depends on the operations budget, needs and current systems.
References
Forester Technik. Automatic lamb feeder ECO Feeding lambs made easy. https://www.foerster-technik.com/lamb-feeding/automatic-lamb-feeder/
Grober. Equipment. https://www.grobernutrition.com/products/equipment/
Pyon Products. Heatwave Milk Warmer. https://pyonproducts.com/shop/heatwave
Holm&Laue. MilkTaxi. https://www.holm-laue.com/milchtaxi/?language=en
