Grand Father feeders

[Jenny mac]

Hi everyone,
I have 5 chickens they are 27 weeks old, I have had them since 15 weeks old. My problem is, is that I have been feeding them through a continual feeder, the sparrows are getting very fat on my chook feed and would like to purchase a Grand Father feeder, to stop the sparrows eating the food. Will my girls learn how to use the new feeder, if so how do I teach them. Your advise would be very much appreciated.

 

[drumstick diva]

I'm not certain what a grand father feeder is but, I'm sure you birds will learn how to use it. Bigger problem than sparrows stealing their feed is that they carry mites and lice and maybe disease to your flock. It would be very good if you could run deer netting around the perimeter of your run and full height to keep these pests out. Hope you will check out the Learning Center.

Welcome to Backyard chickens. Other responders may have ideas about feeders.

 

[Jenny mac]

Hi, thanks for advice, I may be using the incorrect name for this feeder, it's lid lifts open when a chicken stands on the step and closes when they step off.

 

[Hholly]

You're talking about a treadle feeder of which there are many brands. It is my understanding that training the birds to use them is easy by adding weight to keep the treadle down and the feeder open for a few weeks until the birds get used to it, then allowing the birds to operate it themselves. I think the Grandpa's chicken feeder has a clip to keep the feeder open for training.
There are plans available to build your own, somewhere here on BYC too. Probably cheaper than Grandpa's.

Good luck!

 

[Jenny mac]

Many thanks, I will go and purchase one.

 

[Hholly]

Let us know how it works out.

 

[Frindizzle]

Welcome to BYC! Glad you joined the flock!

 

[N F C]

Hi, welcome to BYC!

I hope the treadle feeder works for you.

Thanks for joining us and if you have questions, feel free to ask.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[Jenny mac]

Let us know how it works out.

hi they used it a first but had a hissy fit when the lid closed on them. Ive left the lid open for a few days to let them get used to it. I am not sure if they will?