Chick feeder

[ant888]

Hi, does anyone know if I can use this feeder when my chicks are grownup, and is the can in the background safe for storing the feed? It's a ten gallon galvanized garbage can:

 

[ant888]

Anyone? I'm still hesitant to use the can.

 

[brichard]

I don't know why you couldn't use them. I'm fairly new to this but my feeder is galvanized metal, and it's the same one I used when my girls were chicks, so I would think the can is fine, and the feeder should be fine, but you'll probably want to get something bigger as they start to eat a lot more.

 

[Clucker53]

The garbage can is a good idea for rodents and ect. But i do reccomend you get a feeder that is bigger than yours , when your chicks grow older. I say that because it will be uncomfortable for your chickens, and the food will be much more dirty due to rodents, poop, bedding.

 

[ant888]

Thanks, so the can is good for rodent protection. Thanks for answering.

 

[yyz0yyz0]

Don't know if it's true or not, but I was told by my dad that metal cans are not good for feed storage due to the condensation issues caused by the metal. As I said I don't know if it's true but I know that an empty soup can sitting on my table saw will cause a rust ring on the saw but a plastic jug/cup will not cause this rust ring.

YMMV

 

[BruceAZ]

Don't know if it's true or not, but I was told by my dad that metal cans are not good for feed storage due to the condensation issues caused by the metal. As I said I don't know if it's true but I know that an empty soup can sitting on my table saw will cause a rust ring on the saw but a plastic jug/cup will not cause this rust ring.

YMMV

true.. feed should be stored in a cool and dry place.

i keep the main feed container inside the house (out of 100-120 degree heat of the Arizona desert). I'll just refill the feeder each day with enough feed for 1 day each evening.

with chickens-- it's best to keep the feeder elevated to prevent them from scratch and pretty much putting their own manure in the feeder

also to prevent waste.. get one with the dividers so they can dig out the feed

I found hanging the feed is more convenience. so far little waste. maybe 1% ?

be sure to adjust the height of the feeder with the chickens' back

Use a chain and hooks so it's adjustable as your chickens got bigger.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Chick feeders can't be used for adults. I don't recommend people buy them if they are only going to have chicks once. Chicks after about 4 or 5 weeks can't even access all the feed in them.

As was said, metal is rodent proof but if you live where it is hot and humid, condensation will have the potential to mold the feed. I use big plastic stackable bins that each hold almost 100 # of feed and after 6 years, haven't had a rodent chew through them.