Ideas to keep hens out of cattle trough?

[Shawnee_b]

A few weeks ago a chicken flew right into the cattle tank. I was there, rescued it and 2 min later another one did the same. Today I wasn't there to rescue one (same one did it before) and it drowned. Both times the water was 8" or so but can be over 2 feet when full. Black oval 110 gallon tank. I have seen them perch on the rail and drink but these 2 weren't perching, they flew in.

Any ideas to keep them out? Away? They have water in several places. I thought maybe a welded ramp and they could climb out, maybe. Then again they may use it to get in the tank. I'd rather keep them away. Thanks

 

[ChicKat]

my best guess....fence them away from it. "Pastured poultry", rather than free range.

 

[Shawnee_b]

Thanks but hate to do that fr several reasons. One is chickens and cattle have a relationship. Cattle won't eat grass around a flop for near a year. When chickens tear it up, the next rotation in 3 weeks they will eat the grass.

 

[dainerra]

Put a" ramp" in the trough, something the bird can use to climb out of the water. A stack of blocks our some wood to give them a boost

 

[Shawnee_b]

Thanks. Think I'll weld a ramp up they can get a good grip on. Got to try something.