Poultry & Chicken Feeders & Waterers

A chicken auto feeder can be great for your chickens and for you. They allow your hens to eat when they want, which can support the health of your flock and optimal laying. An automatic poultry feeder also helps prevent wild birds from stealing the feed, which can lower the risk of your hens and roosters contracting disease.

A high-quality automatic feeder also limits feed waste and keeps out rain and snow, so your feed won’t spoil. Finally, it can help keep out rodents and pests, which can quickly eat through your feed supply. Want to learn more about keeping your flock healthy? Take a look at Keeping Chickens 101.

Setting up your auto feeder will depend on the brand and model you’ve purchased. Make sure to carefully read the directions before installing your new poultry feeder. If you still have questions, look for a customer service number for the manufacturer. You may also want to check the manufacturer’s website for more information.

When looking at chicken feeders, you’ll need to consider the size of your flock, the features you want and your budget. A larger flock will require a larger feeder. Hens eat, on average, half a cup of feed per day each.

Next, consider what features you want in a feeder. If you want to be able to go on vacation without worrying about your flock, a chicken auto feeder might be a good option. Automatic feeders can also help protect feed from pests, wild birds and the elements.

Finally, consider your budget. Top-of-the-line automatic chicken feeders can be pricey, but you can also find models at a range of prices.

Most chicken pet parents prefer to put their chicken feeders and waterers in the chicken run or in the range. This can free up space in the coop for laying eggs and roosting. However, there may be some instances where putting the feeder and waterer in the coop is a good idea.

If the coop is used as a brooder, chicks won’t go into the range, so the feed and water will need to be in the coop. You may also want to keep the feeder in the coop if your other animals have figured out how to use it—such as goats and horses—and are gobbling the feed.