nipple waterers

[Kit]

I have a question - why only 3 nipples per 5 gallon bucket - I have 20 chicks - still indoors - so I only have one waterer - plan to put another one outside as soon as they go out - why not a few more nipples.

 

[j3707]

They'll take turns, but no harm in adding more if you like.

 

[Arielle]

x2

With just 3 nipples per 5 gal pail, you can put up 2 or more pails if you want. I think the sharing is about 5 birds per nipple. It would be better to make a second pail. In case a bully keeps a shy bird away.

 

[Mommysongbird]

Where do you get the nipples for the water buckets? I would like to do this in the coop instead of having the waterer on the ground/floor.

 

[debid]

They like to drink socially.

I saw 5 chicks on one nipple earlier today. If the next nipple over is too close, it won't be available to use with all of those chickens in the way! So, more nipples might sound better but it's actually a waste since they won't all be used at once.

 

[Kit]

I ordered my nipples from QC supply - I think they were about 1.89 each with a rubber grommet for each one - the biggest problem I had was finding an 11/32 drill bit for the holes - they do allow you a little leeway in the size for the holes, if you can't find that size. They were hard to push into the grommets - my son got the brilliant idea of using a socket (from a socket wrench) that fit the edge of of the nipple, so we could push them into the grommet without damaging the nipple. But after all that - the waterer is working great. Thanks to all who provided very helpful explanations and suggestions.

 

[Neil Grassbaugh]

Quote:

 

[Neil Grassbaugh]

Quote:
The equipment and birds are better off when the nipples are utilized to their optimum capacity. Under utilization can lead to problems even with a closed water supply.

 

[Neil Grassbaugh]

Quote:
http://www.frcellc.com/pdf/IMP_NIPPLE_DRINKER_PRICES_W-SHIPPING_29MAR11.pdf

http://www.frcellc.com/pdf/Small_Sales_Nipple_Drinkers29MAR11.pdf

 

[NickyPick]

I bought the threaded nipples and my dad used a 10/32 drill bit for the holes. Then he carfully used a 3/8 threader to make a thread on the holes. The nipples screwed in perfectly and we haven't had any leaking.
I was really surprised how quickly the chicks (8 weeks) picked it up. All it took was one curious one to figure it out, which took about 10 minutes, and an hour later, I saw the whole group pecking away.