3 chickens = how many nipples and what size jug?

[greenbottle27]

I'm getting my first ever chicks in august after we all settle in from vacations. I can't WAIT!! I have my brooder and coop but need some important extras

I'd like to use the nipple system for water.

I will be the proud momma of 2-3 chickens max. I say 2, DH says 3.

How many nipples do I need?
And what sized jug should I use?
How long will a gallon jug last?


Based on my coop set-up where would you place the nipple? Inside or outside the coop - or should I have both?

If it matters, I live in Southern NJ, 90 minutes from Cape May.

THANKS!!

 

[gale65]

According to the guy I bought the nipples from, you can get by with one (for up to 5 chickens I think). I don't know the rest of the answers to your questions though.

 

[Neil Grassbaugh]

One nipple will be enough for your flock. The chickens will spend most of theiday outside during the non freezing weather so have it out there then. When the weater is col have it inside to reduce freezing.

Think about a nipple on a pipe attached to a tank with tubing so you can easily move the drinker when the time comes. 100 laying hens will drink just over 5 gallons of water a day.

Is that a metal perch pole? If it is that is a bad idea. Conducts to much heat away from the body in the winter time and has no positive benefits in the summer. You chickens would choose to roost on a flat 2 x 4 rather than what you have , all other things being equal.

 

[ChickenAl]

Don't do what I did and put 5 nipples in a 5 gal bucket for 6 chickens. I don't know what I was thinking.

If you are in NJ, that roost pole will be a problem if it is metal. A 2x3 or 2x4 on its side makes a great perch in colder areas. The larger flat area makes the chickens able to sleep covering their feet with their body so they don't get frostbitten toes.


Nice looking coop, BTW.

 

[Caddy-Corner-Chick]

I have 23 chickens and they have been drinking almost 4 gallons of water a day. We are located in Florida and have been hitting 103, so I guess I can say I am surprised.

I have 5 gallon bucket with 4 nipples x2.

 

[greenbottle27]

You guys are the best! Thanks for the input and advice! I'm adding an A frame to the roof (flat roof was standard) and sorta pictured the water tank unit under a hinged liftable A framed roof..., with maybe a split nipple pipe thingy going inside the coop and one outside? DH says I have a vivid imagination.

The roost is not metal, it's a natural limb, although it does look like a piece of pipe. I am adding a caddy corner 2x4 roost opposite the wall pictured. Rectangle, round, skinny, fat..the girls will have options

Any other thoughts or ideas are welcomed!

 

[NicoleRM]

Regardless of how many birds it is serving, I always put at least two nipples on each container waterer. I worry that if I just put one it may clog and leave them unable to access the water.

 

[greenbottle27]

Quote:
Good thought Nicole! I will have more than one for sure!!

 

[Tea S.]

what type of nipples exactly are put in the buckets? and do you silicone the nipple in place?


Thanks!

T

 

[greenbottle27]

Tea S. :

what type of nipples exactly are put in the buckets? and do you silicone the nipple in place?


Thanks!

T

*lol* SOunds like you are new to nipples?

I was until this forum - and thank goodness for this place!

Here is an example of the nipples http://www.avianaquamiser.com/chickennipple/ somebody here sells them and you can get them on e-bay/amazon

Sorry if I am breaking a "rule" by posting this link - feel free to moderate as needed.​