where and how to store feed safely

[mrv19]

Looking for input on whats safe and also convenient for storing feed. The coop is attached to a separate shed. Obviously i will need to put the feed in some type of container with a lid. Is it best stored in the shed? Or can it be kept outdoors so long as water and critters cannot get in? Also...i know you dont want to get the feed wet so it doesnt mold but do temperature or humidity fluctuations matter at all? When the chicks were indoors full time i just kept the feed bag in the basement in a constant dry cool temp.

 

[cummins05]

I am not a genius nor would I claim to be one. My dad has raised chickens for about 40 years and he always used a 55 gallon drum with a metal lid. I recently started my own flock and purchased a small metal trashcan with a metal lid. I think it might be 20 gallons. Figured it will keep the food dry and keep things like rats and mice out. I figured my make it more difficult than it needs to be. Just my $0.02

 

[mrv19]

Sounds perfect if it works!

 

[TimCline]

I use barrels and an old junk fridge. If you turn a fridge ( or deep freeze) on its back and take the shelves out. Perfect feed container.

 

[Folly's place]

I use metal garbage cans, raised on boards so they aren't on a damp surface. Mary

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Depends on your climate. Metal is great for keeping rodents out. It gets extremely hot and humid here. In those conditions, metal will sweat and mold feed.

I use these plastic bins and don't have problems with rodents.

 

[mrv19]

Those look great! I considered a large cooler too, thinking it would be good in both cool or hot weather?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I can get 80-90 lbs. of feed in each one. I have a stack of three and I can access the feed while they're stacked.

 

[blucoondawg]

I use metal garbage cans for my feed I put them on a pallet so they are off the ground. Feed store for a long time can mold on the very bottom of the can ice only had it with wild bird seed when the can was on the ground