storing feed and shavings

[chickmom4]

don't know if im doing this in the right place but I have a question. we would like to store our feed and shavings outside. we don't have a garage. . what type of container would work best? I need waterproof and critter proof. im also concerned about food getting moldy in the summer with the heat and humidity. right now we keep everything in the house. only have 4 chickens and am still learning.

 

[Hooligans7]

don't know if im doing this in the right place but I have a question. we would like to store our feed and shavings outside. we don't have a garage. . what type of container would work best? I need waterproof and critter proof. im also concerned about food getting moldy in the summer with the heat and humidity. right now we keep everything in the house. only have 4 chickens and am still learning.

Welcome, chickmom4. Usually, unsheltered containers outdoors would not be suitable due to extremes of temperature and humidity, which, as you know, can ruin its contents. So consider a small tool or garden shed with a door that locks or latches securely. The shed should be located in the shade to avoid overheating, and be well ventilated to avoid heat buildup, condensation, and mold growth.

If you live in the northern hemisphere, you could locate the shed on the north wall of your house, if appropriate, and/or construct a simple awning roof for shade if necessary. To be effective, awnings must be large enough to provide total shade even at low angles of the sun.

If mice are a problem, then you'll want your shed and/or containers to be mouse proof as well. You could use poison bait or traps, but it's better to prevent that problem than try to fix it. Good luck! You wanted a garden shed anyway, right?

 

[chickmom4]

thanks for the info and lol, yes a garden shed would be great!

 

[ottbmom]

There are some specialty dog food containers that might help with your feed storage.

This is one I saw people use a lot and they seemed to love it: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000QSMWRK/ref=pd_aw_sims_8?pi=SS115

 

[Mrs. Fluffy Puffy]

We live in west Texas, so no problems with mold much here, but I keep my feed on the back porch in big plastic buckets with lids.

~ Aspen