Introduction
Gravity feeders are a popular option for feeding chickens because they are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. In this step-by-step guide, we'll show you how to build your own gravity feeder for your chicken coop.
Materials List
- 5-gallon plastic bucket with lid
- PVC pipe (2-inch diameter, length depends on the height of your coop)
- PVC end cap (2-inch diameter)
- Drill
- 2-inch hole saw drill bit
- Utility knife
- Measuring tape
- Marker or pen
Construction Steps
- Measure the height of your chicken coop and cut the PVC pipe to the appropriate length.
- Drill a hole in the center of the PVC end cap using the 2-inch hole saw drill bit.
- Place the PVC end cap on top of the bucket lid and trace around the cap with your marker or pen.
- Cut out the traced circle on the bucket lid with your utility knife.
- Insert the PVC pipe through the hole in the end cap and attach the end cap to the bottom of the PVC pipe.
- Fill the bucket with chicken feed.
- Attach the lid to the bucket, making sure the PVC pipe is sticking out of the hole in the lid.
- Turn the bucket upside down and place it in your chicken coop.
- As the chickens eat the feed from the bottom of the pipe, more feed will naturally fall down to replace it.
Maintenance and Tips
Here are some tips for maintaining your gravity feeder:
- Clean the feeder regularly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.
- Check the feed level in the bucket regularly and refill as needed.
- Secure the feeder to prevent it from tipping over or spilling.
- If you have a large flock, consider installing multiple gravity feeders to ensure everyone has access to food.
By following these simple steps, you can build a gravity feeder for your chicken coop that will keep your flock well-fed and happy!
