Abstract: 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weight or number) corresponding to the capacity of one of the open-topped containers (19) which are in turn withdrawn from the module (18), loaded with a batch of poultry and then returned to the module, each loading unit (28) shifting vertically as successive containers are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.

Abstract: 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weight or number) corresponding to the capacity of one of the open-topped containers (19) which are in turn withdrawn from the module (18), loaded with a batch of poultry and then returned to the module, each loading unit (28) shifting vertically as successive containers are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.

Abstract: Apparatus for gas stunning of poultry in open top drawers (22) comprises a tank (10) holding a heavier than air stunning gas such as a mixture argon and carbon dioxide. A lowering conveyor (24) receives the poultry-containing drawers (22), lowers them into the tank and delivers them to the infeed end of a series of conveyors (28) which transport the drawers (22) through the tank to the base of a lifting conveyor (32) which lifts the drawers and delivers them to the infeed end of a conveyor (34) which transports the dead poultry away for slaughtering. The conveyors (24, 28) are provided with covers (26, 30) to prevent the poultry escaping from the drawers. The drawers (22) are moulded with apertured sides and bases to allow penetration of the gas into the drawers so that the poultry is exposed to the gas for a time sufficient to kill the poultry, or at least render the poultry anoxic.

Abstract: Apparatus for handling small livestock such as chickens comprising open topped slideable drawers (12) in a rectangular housing (10) from which they are slid to allow for loading and subsequently for unloading onto a transfer conveyor (20). A roof (34) over the conveyor covers the open tops of the drawers as they move therealong to prevent the livestock from escape.An elevating platform (28) adjacent the conveyor (20) allows the housing (10) to be raised and lowered to allow the drawers to be pushed or pulled from the housing directly onto the conveyor.A method of collecting and handling livestock involves the step of filling the drawers in the housing with livestock, transporting the housing to a drawer unloading station where the drawers are removed from the housing onto a conveyor, for movement therealong beneath a roof which serves to cover the open tops of the drawers to prevent the livestock escaping, while they are transferred to a livestock unloading station at which the roof terminates.