Shaker box test

1. Stack sieves top to bottom

   a. Largest sieve/holes to closed container

2. Take 200 to 300 grams of feed at 3 different locations (beginning, middle and end of feed fence)

   a. Do not shake feed when putting in scoop

3. Empty scoop in sieve

4. Use the PennState Forage Separator

   a. Move sieves horizontally 5 times back and forth

   b. Rotate the box one quarter turn, repeat step 1

   c. Rotate the box one quarter turn, repeat step 1

   d. Rotate the box one quarter turn, repeat step 1

   e. Repeat this process twice in total

   f. One movement per second over a distance of approximately 30 cm (arm length)

5. Tare the scale (weight of feed scoop)

   a. Weigh amount of feed for every sieve (use scoop)

   b. Note all weights per sieve (A, B,C,D)

6. Repeat step 1 to 4 for sample 2 and 3

7. Fill in the figures in the Excel file.

8. Clean the sieves and the feed scoop out after analyzing the sample to avoid contamination between samples

9. Check if there is enough stitch and scratch in the ration by using the score card “Stretch and Scratch”

10. Check if the cows are sorting at the feed fence:

   a. Parts longer than 7cm can be sorted out

   b. Do small feed particles stick to the roughage or do they fall through on the feed table?

11. Check the feeding signals (rumen fill, rumination activity, BCS, manure) and see if you connect the feeding signals to what you see at the feed fence