Food and Water In Or Out Of Coop

[quadbyz4]

I am new to raising chickens (as an adult), is it best to keep the food and water in the coop? Should I put it out during the day or will they go in to feed and drink? We live in Colorado so in the winter I will leave it in. I don't want to waste food by it getting wet if it rains during the day when we are away. Should I put an extra water'er out during the day to keep them cool when it is real hot during the summer? Thanks!

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

Generally it is best to keep the food and water where ever the chickens do most of their hanging out. And many times, won't go into the coop to look for water. So I would keep the food and water outside all day in the run if that is where they are spending their time. If it is a cold snowy or wet day and they are inside, then keep the food and water with them inside.

As for food getting wet, they do make feeders with rain guards on them if rain starts to become a problem.

Great to have you aboard and enjoy all your poultry adventures!!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! Glad you joined us!

 

[sumi]

Welcome to BYC

Glad you joined us!

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! TwoCrows gave you some good advice. Extra waterers during the summer are always a good idea to be sure the birds are drinking enough and in case one goes empty etc. Where to put what also depends on your individual set up and what kind of coop you have etc. I usually keep the water just outside the door of the coops to keep the coop dryer, food is inside the coop so it stays dry ....

 

[Mehjr10]

Welcome to BYC from West TN !!! My layer is inside the coop, scratch thrown out in the evening for the next day in the run and water is outside the coop Via a Nipple Rain Barrel System.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC.

 

[gander007]

MY chickens love to have feed & water near by ....

 

[drumstick diva]

Rats and mice will go after feed that is left out over night. During the day you may find wild birds and squirrels emptying your feeder if left outside.