right on, so this new timer to duckland is doing it right i guess, thanks. im completely new to this forum stuff, posts and all and am trying to figure it all out. i will be sending pics when i know what im doing. im in a small town and i beleive the only wacko with chickens and ducks along with the usual dogs and cats. i had 5 chickens and 4 ducks but just adopted 7 more chickens from a friend getting divorced, holy crap what a smozzle getting the living quarters all arranged. the coup was perfect for my small flock so im trying to extend it,im still working on it daily with tarps (trial and error in the wind and snow) i tend to worry a lot for my flock and want everyone comfortable. i have at least figured out the perfect solution to water freezing. i use a large heavy black plastic shallow bucket for the ducks and put in a de icer, works like a charm and i change it every other day. i also cover half of it so the beggers cant crap in it. same idea for the chickens, large 5 gallon pail, cut a slit out so they can reach and everyone is all suited up for water, releif.