"Hay" - what is it, definition of the term
The term denotes herbaceous vegetation that has been cut, dried, and stored for use as animal feed; it primarily comprises grasses and legumes, retains nutritional value after moisture removal, and is frequently employed as bedding and enrichment material for small rodents such as rats and mice.
Detailed information
Dried forage, commonly produced from grasses and legumes, serves as a primary feed source for herbivorous livestock. The material is harvested at a specific stage of maturity to maximize digestible protein and carbohydrate content, then cured to reduce moisture to a level that prevents microbial spoilage. Typical nutritional composition includes 10–20 % crude protein, 30–40 % neutral detergent fiber, and a range of minerals essential for animal health.
Effective preservation relies on controlling moisture, temperature, and exposure to oxygen. Ideal moisture content falls between 12 % and 15 %; values above this threshold accelerate mold growth, while excessively low moisture compromises palatability. Storage structures—such as ventilated barns, silos, or tarpaulin‑covered stacks—must allow airflow to maintain uniform drying and prevent condensation.
Rodents, specifically rats and mice, frequently infest stored dried forage. Their activities cause physical loss through gnawing, contaminate the material with urine and feces, and facilitate the spread of pathogens. Management strategies include:
- Sealing entry points in storage facilities with metal flashing or concrete.
- Installing metal or reinforced plastic barriers around the perimeter of stacks.
- Deploying snap traps or electronic kill devices in high‑traffic zones.
- Applying rodent‑resistant storage containers made of steel or thick polymer.
- Conducting regular inspections to detect early signs of infestation and remove compromised material promptly.
Integrating these practices maintains feed quality, reduces economic losses, and mitigates health risks associated with rodent contamination.