To coop feed/water or to not?

[Robbo]

I have a water and feeder I bought to put outside in the room / free roam. My local store told me to keep it out only in there and don't place anything besides scratch or feed in the coop. But I was curious if I should? I do have a duck (possibly two) that will be sleeping with the 2 chickens. I know how messy the water situation is with them and I don't want the coop wet...

So what is the suggestion? I am just afraid being locked up at night they will go too long without water until the morning. Specially if my duck chooses to eat some scratch (if I place it in there) or the fresh veggies, ect.

 

[ruby66]

I've had to start taking all food out of the coop, mice were beginning to take over, now I put their food/water out in the yard when I let them out, the mice seem to have disappeared, and they don't eat or drink till the sun comes up, so they haven't cared too much

 

[Robbo]

That is great to know, I was a bit worried. Only for the fact when the ducks empty the water in the brooder at night time when I wake up the ducks and chickens are pretty upset and all get very noisey waiting for water.

But I really really do not want food or water in the coop as I see how messy ducks are, and we did get 2!

How about in the winter...? I know it needs to stay dry but should I offer some corn or anything in the coop at night?

 

[Rich386]

The chickens will be fine at night without water they don't roam at night. Don't know a thing about ducks but assume they are the same. These other folks can better advise you about them.