Ok, I know this is a seriously stupid question but here goes. I have three hens and a rooster I got about a month ago and I am having some feed problems. Well maybe not feed per say but feeder....I do think they will eat there pellets anywhere but off the ground. I have had a tray feeder full of pellets for a week untouched. This morning I put a pile on the ground with some oyster shells and now it is all gone. I also put some in a shallow glass baking dish outside in there run and they haven't touched it either. Anyone else have to feed your chickens on the ground? Seems wasteful.
Hi Jesslee12----
My greatest all-time boss used to say 'the only stupid question is the one that doesn't get asked'. Wish more of the world was as supportive.... There aren't stupid questions IMO. (or anyway very few).
Actually I think that a lot of chicken keepers need to work out feeding issues. I also agree with you that the ground isn't the best place for feed---but some chickens are used to it, and chickens don't like changes.........
Since you have only had your flock for a month you are still establishing how the routines will go. here are some thoughts for you to consider......
if there is a treat that they love---such as -- sunflower seeds, or watermelon rind, or garden trimmings or left over food scraps like scrambled eggs...and you put those in there new designated feeder, maybe that would help "train' them to eat from the feeder.
You could put the pellets in their feeder and add a tiny bit of water...I don't know what the water does...makes it seem fresh or something -- and they get more interested in the feed.
some chooks physically may have problems with some of the feeders. I have one that is hooded and the resulting slit is fine for the small combed chickens, but I suspect that if my big combed rooster had to use it, it would be very uncomfortable. (which may be advantageous---always fill it with layer feed and hope he skips that feeder
Post back when you solve it....I would be interested to know what you come up with. Good luck.
Oh and welcome to BYC forum!!!
