Write short notes on each of the following: (a) tractors; (b) incubators; (c) sprayers, (d) shelters

Answer Details

(a) Tractors. A tractor is a heavy, self-propelled engine-powered machine that provides the main source of mechanical draught power on the farm. It is used to pull and drive implements such as ploughs, harrows, ridgers, planters and trailers, and can supply power to other machines through its power take-off (PTO) shaft and hydraulic system. Tractors greatly reduce human drudgery and enable timely, large-scale land preparation and other operations. They may be wheeled or crawler (tracked) types.

(b) Incubators. An incubator is a machine that provides the correct conditions of warmth, humidity, ventilation and turning needed to hatch fertile eggs artificially in the absence of a broody hen. It maintains a temperature of about 37 to 39 degrees Celsius and suitable humidity, and turns the eggs regularly. It allows large numbers of eggs (for example chicks) to be hatched at the same time, which is essential in commercial poultry production.

(c) Sprayers. A sprayer is an equipment used to apply liquid chemicals such as insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and liquid fertilisers onto crops in the form of a fine mist or droplets. It breaks the liquid into small particles and distributes it evenly over the plants. Common types include the knapsack (back-pack) sprayer, the hand sprayer and the motorised or tractor-mounted sprayer.

(d) Shelters. Shelters are structures (housing) provided to protect farm animals from harsh weather (rain, sun, cold and wind), predators, theft and diseases. Good shelters keep animals comfortable and healthy, ease feeding, watering and management, and improve productivity. Examples include poultry houses, pig pens, cattle kraals and rabbit hutches.