Abstract: A plurality of cages are arranged side-by-side on a frame in one or more horizontally spaced rows and if desired in spaced vertical tiers. The commonly facing sides of each spaced row include coverable access openings and poultry confined in the cages are removed through the openings onto a generally horizontally moving conveyor movable vertically adjacent the cage openings to each tier. Preferably, the conveyor is an endless belt type and each tier includes horizontally spaced rows vertically spaced above each other, the conveyor being movable vertically between the rows.

Abstract: A poultry cage with controlled feeder includes a cage with a feed trough mounted thereon and having a feed carrier in the trough, a movable top cover over the trough which prevents access to the trough and a control associated with the top cover and the drive means for the feed carrier for displacing the cover to permit access to the trough at predetermined intervals. The control permits distribution by the carrier of feed through the whole trough before the top cover is moved and the birds are allowed to feed.

Abstract: Proper ventilation is achieved by exhaust fans which draw fresh air into the building through an inlet duct. The inlet opening is adjustable by a valve movable between generally open and closed positions and a movable deflector controls the direction of flow in accordance with the rate of flow to achieve even circulation. The valve and deflector position are controlled by an actuator responsive to the pressure differential between the inside and outside of the building. Preferably, the inlet opening is a longitudinal slot extending the length of the building along each side at the ceiling and the exhaust fans are positioned at the floor. Preferably, a louver in front of the opening controls the effective size of the opening and the deflection angle of flow into the building.

Abstract: A plurality of cages are arranged side-by-side on a frame in one or more horizontally spaced rows and if desired in spaced vertical tiers. The commonly facing sides of each spaced row include coverable access openings and poultry confined in the cages are removed through the openings onto a generally horizontally moving conveyor movable vertically adjacent the cage openings to each tier. Preferably, the conveyor is an endless belt type and each tier includes horizontally spaced rows vertically spaced above each other, the conveyor being movable vertically between the rows.

Abstract: When the ambient temperature is high, proper temperature control is assisted within the poultry house using a spray means that sprays water onto a filter pad that is positioned in front of the fresh air inlet. The water spray and pad act to cool air being taken into the building through the inlet without objectionably raising the humidity.

Abstract: Proper ventilation is achieved by exhaust fans which draw fresh air into the building through an inlet duct. The inlet opening is adjustable by a valve movable between generally open and closed positions and a movable deflector controls the direction of flow in accordance with the rate of flow to achieve even circulation. The valve and deflector position are controlled by an actuator responsive to the pressure differential between the inside and outside of the building. Preferably, the inlet opening is a longitudinal slot extending the length of the building along each side at the ceiling and the exhaust fans are positioned at the floor. Preferably, a louver in front of the opening controls the effective size of the opening and the deflection angle of flow into the building.