Livestock handling apparatus and method

摘要

Apparatus for loading live poultry into open-topped containers (19) comprise a plurality (preferably three) loading units (28) arranged side by side so that each loading unit (28) is aligned with a column of containers (19) accommodated in a standard module (18). Each loading unit has a batching receptacle (33) to receive a batch of poultry (of predetermined weight or number) corresponding to the capacity of one of the open-topped containers (19) which are in turn withdrawn from the module (18), loaded with a batch of poultry and then returned to the module, each loading unit (28) shifting vertically as successive containers are loaded with poultry. A separate catching vehicle (54) may be used to catch the poultry and deliver it to the apparatus. <IMAGE>