do they need water outside when free-ranging?

[NuthatchKnollChickens]

My chickens have a good-sized coop with attached run, but we also let them out during the day to free range, which they love. Their food and water is in their coop. Obviously, they are eating all kinds of vegetation and bugs and whatnot when they are out, but I don't have a waterer out there for them anywhere. The door to their run is open so they can easily get back inside whenever they like but they don't tend to go back in until they are ready to roost in the evening. Would it be a good idea to put a waterer outside somewhere for them, or am I worrying too much?

 

[bluey]

Always have fresh, clean water outside for free ranging chickens!

Having it will help keep your coop clean!

...and

 

[chicksinthemachine]

I put water in the run and their favorite place to sunbathe also refill on really hot days. Welcome to BYC!! Be careful it's addicting.

 

[AussieSharon]

Mine free range during the day and I have several waterers in the yard for them. They seem to really appreciate them.

 

[chickflick]

If they get dehydrated, egg production will drop, so put fresh water out thoughout your yard. They tend to hide in the shade in hot sunny days and might not want to go back to the coop to get their water.

 

[NuthatchKnollChickens]

Okay - thanks everyone! I'll pick them up a couple new waterers today.

 

[JennsPeeps]

I just have a bowl out in the yard for the chickens & cats. No need to buy a fancy waterer for the yard. Coop is a different story because the water needs to stay in a small area.

If you have chicks, put marbles in the water bowl to prevent drowning deaths.

 

[BearSwampChick]

On really hot days add some ice cubes to the yard waterers. They love it!