How high should I put this?

[kaylyntheweirdginger]

My chickens are used to the gravity feeder waterers and I bought one of these (see attachment). I have it in the coop which they are still getting used to. I'm not sure how high to hang it. I haven't seen them use it so I'm not sure if its high enough. I think I have it about maybe 18 inches from nipple to floor. my chickens are full size but I'll have some smaller ones using it hopefully soon. How do you get your chickens to use it? How high should I have it?

 

[rosemarythyme]

With vertical nipples they should be high enough so the birds can go under it, and lift their heads to toggle the nipples. If you have smaller/younger birds, some bricks or concrete pavers stacked up can work as a "booster seat."

Since you're in WI note that this style of nipple will freeze solid in freezing temperatures, even if the water inside is liquid.

 

[wamtazlady]

As rosemarythyme said, vertical nipples will freeze in the winter. Have you considered using horizontal nipples instead? Horizontal nipples used on similar plastic bucket as in your picture and a stock tank deicer that is rated for use in plastic will keep water thawed all winter. I use a clear plastic tote with lid instead of a bucket. Even when it's in the -20s my chickens have thawed water.

 

[Sueby]

I use a waterer like this in the summer, the girls like to play in it & they use it more than the HN waterer. I do switch strictly to heated horizontal nipple waterers in the winter.

Anyway, it's hung high so they have to reach up their heads & stretch their necks out. I do have a brick under it for the shorter girls if they want to use it.

I have never really had to teach them to use this one, they just learn from the older girls. But if you wanted to teach them grab a bird or 2 & tap their beak on the nipple - they'll get it.

 

[blackdog043]

Since you're in WI note that this style of nipple will freeze solid in freezing temperatures, even if the water inside is liquid.

As rosemarythyme said, vertical nipples will freeze in the winter. Have you considered using horizontal nipples instead? Even when it's in the -20s my chickens have thawed water.

If you don't have a heated waterer and are interested in making one with horizontal nipples, below is a link to my DIY article.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...ock-tank-deicer-and-horizontal-nipples.74609/

 

[Kellow1]

I use heated dog bowls in the winter.