86 Evaluation of the Super Smartfeeder System (C-Lock, Inc) for Lamb Supplemental Feeding in a Pasture-based System

Abstract The C-Lock, Inc Super SmartFeeder (feeder) may provide opportunities to evaluate lamb supplemental feeding behavior on pasture. objective of this study was determine capacity, behavior, and methodologies for training lambs system. Post-weaning, (n = 179) were introduced the feeder (day 0) fescue-based pasture at Southwest Virginia Agricultural Research Extension Center. For 24 days, supplemented 0.23 kg/hd/day with To transition feeder, additional standard trough feeders provided until day 10 starting 0.45 decreasing 0.15 kg/hd/day. Feeder data analyzed using SAS frequency traits assess capacity efficacy methodology. During days 9-16 17-24, a greater percentage ate between 12 AM 6 compared 0-8 (65 63%, respectively, vs. 26%; P < 0.05). 0-8, PM 17-24 (47% 23 10%, respectively; A visited 17 or more 16 less (59 41%; 0-5, visiting daily varied 30 80%. After being exposed only 64% 78%. consistency in proportion after acclimation period indicated successful feeder. On average over 18 consistent visits, 72% daily. Therefore, maximum carrying system should not exceed 120-125 lambs.