A round bale is a large, cylindrical bundle of hay, straw, or silage that is commonly used in agriculture for feeding livestock. These bales are typically produced by specialized machinery that compresses and wraps the material in a tight roll, making it easier to handle and store. Round bales can vary in size, but they usually weigh between 800 to 2,000 pounds. Farmers often prefer round bales because they are more efficient to transport and can be stored outdoors without significant spoilage. The wrapping material, often made of plastic, helps protect the contents from moisture and pests. This method of baling is particularly popular in the United States and among those who raise cattle or horses.