Hens Getting Enough Water?

[Guavacoop]

I finally got my flock of 4 to use the nipple waterer 2 weeks ago, but I'm worried they aren't getting enough water. I've seen all the chickens using it, it is working properly, the water level has done down in the bucket, and they are laying eggs, but today when I let them out to roam the yard, they ran to a puddle and drank and drank (not a normal behavior for them). They definitely were very thirsty. I'm feeling like I should give them back their old waterer, but it was such a pain to clean every few days! I was so happy to get rid of it. What do others think who have experience with the nipple?

Thanks for any ideas.

 

[Kikiriki]

I used one for quite a while, but like you I noticed the girls were seeking a big long drink from inappropriate places. I relented and got them a water bowl. What did you decide?