What size of feeder and waterer for 3 - 4 chickens?

[dbg99]

Hi. Have just finished building my first chicken coop - now I need to know what size feeder/waterer to get? I'm planning on getting 3 or 4 red shavers? I don't want to have to go out and feed them every day so any suggestions for what sizes I should get? Also, can the chicken feed get wet (ie can I leave it outside) or does it have to be inside where the perch/nest box is? Does the same apply for water or can I leave that outside as well? Thanks for your help.
David

 

[TN_BIRD]

Food and water will keep for days if it is kept clean (food needs to be kept dry). You can leave it outside, but make sure you keep it in a water-resistant container that is also rodent proof.

I like to hang my feeder and waterer under our raised hen house. Helps keep it protected from the elements and keeps the birds from perching on top of them.

 

[Judy]

I'd get the standard smaller size, about a gallon, myself. I change the water every day, or at least two, even if it's half full. Gets slimy and a little stuff from the floor will get kicked up into it. They always run to drink fresh water when it's put out -- even though they happily drink out of yukky mud puddles.

 

[Arielle]

I like to add apple cider vinegar to the water if the container is plastic; no metal containers when using ACV. I add about a 1t splash ACV to 1 gal water. Easy to dump and clean the lip, then replace waterer. It buys me a few days before needing a refill. AND NO SLIME!