Some estimates state that 50% of the bale is wasted when using a round bale feeder. Horse owners who use wooden or plastic hay rings waste an estimated 75% of their hay. Other types of feeding equipment, including traditional hay mangers and hay nets waste very little of the original bale. Horse round bale feeders are the worst option for hay feeders, but are usually safer than feeding bales directly on the ground. Horse round bale feeders also help to keep other predators away from the hay, which would otherwise attract crows, rats, raccoons or other pests that will eat the horse's food. Horse round bale feeders are the most common form of hay feeding equipment.