Abstract: An apparatus for counting the number of objects passing a given point which includes a radiant energy emitter provided above a given point, a radiant energy receiver provided above a given point and at an angle to the radiant energy emitter such that a radiant energy beam emitted by the radiant energy emitter intersects an extension of a radiant energy reception path of the radiant energy receiver in an area of intersection located below the emitter and receiver and over said given point and the area of intersection is provided at a height corresponding to the height of an object to be counted and a means coupled to the receiver for counting the number of objects which passes through the area of intersection.