Patent attributes
A hay feeder for large square bales (e.g., 3′×3′×8′ ones weighting on the order of 700-800 pounds). The feeder is designed to be operable by one person to load the bale into the feeder and includes an elongated chute with four, vertical side members. In use, one of the side members can be pivoted downwardly to a substantially horizontal position and the elongated hay bale positioned on it. Thereafter, it can be raised back to its vertical position to lift the hay bale with it to a vertical position within the elongated chute. The chute and bale have respective upper and lower end sections and the chute has openings at its lower end section to provide access through them to the lower end section of the hay bale. Cover members are provided to selectively cover and uncover the openings to selectively permit and prevent access through them by the livestock.
