New chicken mom here.

[CatSeg]

Hi everyone, I just got my 8 layers on July 5 this year and have a ton of questions. hubby built the most structurally sound coop and run for them. We do not let them free range, at least not yet. They seem very comfortable with their new surroundings. My first q is, what do you all think able automatic feeders? Are they a good idea or should I feed them once in the morning and call it good? And how much is good?

 

[orloffer]

Welcome to BYC, CatSeg! There is so much to see, do, and learn here!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
I take a more Hands-On approach to tending to my flock. While feeding them each morning I can examine everybody's movement and look for any signs of early illness. They should have enough food so they maybe have a little bit left at the end of the day. Layers eat free choice.

 

[Kiki]

Welcome to BYC!

 

[CatSeg]

Hi everyone, I just got my 8 layers on July 5 this year and have a ton of questions. hubby built the most structurally sound coop and run for them. We do not let them free range, at least not yet. They seem very comfortable with their new surroundings. My first q is, what do you all think able automatic feeders? Are they a good idea or should I feed them once in the morning and call it good? And how much is good?

P.S...... they are 3-4 months old.

 

[HappyClucker7]

Welcome to BYC!

 

[CatSeg]

Layers eat free choice.

So does this mean an auto feeder is a good thing?

 

[Starburst]

Hi, and welcome to BYC! So excited you joined!
Make yourself at home in this amazing community!

 

[sourland]

Hello, and welcome to BYC. An automatic feeder can be a good thing if monitored to make sure feed does not get moldy or contaminated by rodents.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

I have never used automatic feeders. I do believe that chickens should be free feeding, always having feed available to them during daylight hours.

Good luck with your flock and welcome to ours!