Feeder problem

[Judy]

Brooder needs:

.5 sq ft per chick for weeks 1 and 2
1 sq ft per chick for weeks 3 and 4
2.5 sq ft per chick for weeks 5-8

Like all these things, just a guideline, of course.

 

[Arielle]

Ginger C's DH wrote: We're going to get our chicks tomorrow. We're expecting to get three. I bought the feeder shown in the OP. Barring a lesson in chicken math, (if we only get 3) will that suffice for when they are grown? I'm trying to get stuff I can use now and a year from now.

I've raised 3 groups of chicks and the bigger they are the more they eat! A small feeder will work if you are willing to fill it 4-5 times a day!!!

For the babies we use several types of feeders; they graduate to a very big box (5 x 7) quickly (1 week old) and that's when I put in many types. Keeps their world interesting.

I use the bottom of an egg carton, like Fred's Hens said--this is easily cut to any size. Bigger is better because when they scratch, the feed is flung and caught in another depression. Much less mess. Mine also like the flying saucer type(round with many holes all around) but not the 14" long with holes. They do like the 12" long trough type with no holes.

Egg cartons--use the paper type; my older birds (6 weeks) shredded the stryofoam type in minutes. Turned into a possible health hazzard and I spend quite some time picking out every little shred. A real pain!!! We usually use the paper type used to package 5 doz, so its about 12 x 12 and everyone can eat and scratch! It is the preferred feeder by us and the chicks.

You will be happy to go to a much larger one that holds 1-2 plus days of feed.If you get more birds, you'll want several feeders so everyone can get to one. GL​

 

[theoldchick]

My Cardboard Corral has done well for me. I've always favored a round pen for young chicks. They seem to run around and play more, and the submissive chicks can escape during aggressive play. It ain't pretty or fancy, but hey, the chicks are happy. I did have to use two heater bulbs when they were two weeks old to keep them warm. Note the tarp underneath which helps protect the floor. I've also used vinyl tablecloths to protect the floor-only $4.00 at General Dollar. $5.50 at Walmart. Once you are finished you can roll it up and throw it away.

 

[Mommysongbird]

Quote:
Dang, I wish I had room for that or even something smaller, but that would take up my WHOLE dining room or living room. I wish we had more room!! <whine>