Importance

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Abstract

An improved method and apparatus for automatically, efficiently and safely loading birds, and preferably turkeys, through side access ports of stacked transport coops are disclosed. A primary lift conveyor is positioned to lift the birds to be loaded at a relatively slow speed from a ground position to an exit end thereof elevated to a height of the coop access gate on a transport vehicle. A second loading conveyor apparatus is aligned with the exit end of the lift conveyor for receiving birds from the lift conveyor and accelerating them to a second speed at which they are automatically deposited into the coop. An adjustable deflector ceiling member is provided for causing the birds to assume and to maintain a sitting position and desired orientation during the acceleration and loading process such that the birds scoot into the coop without the requirement for manual assistance. The loading conveyor apparatus may form an integral extension of the lift conveyor structure or may be removably detachable therefrom.

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First Claim