range feeder

[cybercat]

Does anyone that free ranges use a range feeder? Most of the time I just put feed on the ground but we will be expanding flock. So I am thinking of a feeder I will not have to fill everyday in winter and fall. So what experiances has everyone had with these outdoor feeders. Thanks.

 

[WestKnollAmy]

I free range chickens and ducks. They all come back to the coop at night but I have rubber tubs, pans, trash can lids and anything else that holds food in them out where they can get to them. I like plastic because I want to be able to get old food out before it gets moldy and be able to clean by using soap and water. The big rubber tubs are the best!

I do not like the really big feeders because I put out too much grain and feed tons of wild birds, wild turkey, possums, raccoons and deer. I try to put only enough for the day so i am not luring in other animals. Though the deer and turkey are okay. Yum!

 

[cybercat]

I found on page 42 an ad for grandpas poultry feeder in backyard poultry mag. This one open when chickens step on platform so only chickens get the feed. It is made out of steel. I was tlking about the big plastic ones I have seen in my catalogs but this looks interesting. they say it will hold up to 20lbs of feed for the standard size large holds 40lbs. A feeder in winter would be a good thing here.

 

[junglebird]

Here's a plan for making your own "treadle feeder", by a BYC member: https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=56638-building-a-treadle-feeder

 

[cybercat]

For some reason link will not work.

 

[junglebird]

Thanks, I fixed it!