Keeping chickens can be a rewarding experience. Not only do they provide fresh, nutritious eggs, but their vibrant personalities can be a delight to observe. However, raising free range chickens comes with its own unique challenges.
One of the most important factors to consider when raising free range chickens is providing them with adequate feed. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using a free range chicken feeder and how it can improve the health and wellbeing of your flock.
A free range chicken feeder is designed to provide food for chickens that are allowed to roam freely outside. Unlike traditional feeders that are stationary and require chickens to gather around them, free range chicken feeders are designed to distribute food in a way that mimics natural feeding behaviors. This helps keep birds healthy and happy by providing them with access to fresh food throughout the day.
Feeding your flock properly is essential for their health and wellbeing. If you want your chickens to lay high-quality eggs consistently, then you need to ensure that they have access to nutritious food every day. Without proper nutrition, your birds may become stressed or sick, which can lead to reduced egg production or even death in some cases.
Additionally, if you’re feeding your birds on an ad hoc basis without any structure or routine, then they may end up overeating or under-eating which could lead to malnutrition or obesity respectively. With a free-range chicken feeder you have more control over how much each bird eats each day because they are limited by how much food is available at any given time.
Types of Free Range Chicken Feeders
When it comes to choosing the right feeder for your free range chickens, there are a few different options to consider. Here are some of the most popular types of feeders:
Gravity-fed Feeders
Gravity-fed feeders are one of the most common types of chicken feeders. These simple, no-frills feeders work by holding a supply of feed in a container that has multiple holes or slots at the bottom. As chickens peck at the feed, more falls down to replace it.
One benefit of gravity-fed feeders is that they are relatively low-cost and easy to set up. However, because they do not have any special features or mechanisms to regulate how much feed is dispensed at once, there is a greater risk for waste and overfeeding.
Trough Feeders
Trough feeders are another option for free range chicken owners. These long containers can hold a large amount of feed and allow multiple chickens to eat at once. Some troughs may also have dividers or compartments to separate different types of food or supplements.
One advantage of troughs is that they can help keep food contained and prevent it from getting kicked around or scattered on the ground. However, because troughs require more space and may be more difficult to move around than other types of feeder, they may not be as practical for smaller flocks.
Automatic Feeders
For those who want an even more hands-off approach to feeding their chickens, there are automatic feeder options available as well. These high-tech devices may use sensors or timers to dispense precise amounts of food at set intervals throughout the day.
While automatic feeders can be convenient for busy owners or those who want strict control over their birds’ diets, they tend to be more expensive than other types of feeder and may require more maintenance. Additionally, some chickens may be wary of the mechanical sounds and movements associated with automatic feeders, which could make them less likely to use the device.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Free Range Chicken Feeder
Size and Capacity
One of the first things you should consider when choosing a free range chicken feeder is its size and capacity. The feeder should be able to accommodate the number of chickens you have and provide enough feed for at least a day or two.
If the feeder is too small, you’ll have to refill it frequently, which can be time-consuming. On the other hand, if it’s too big, it may take up too much space in your chicken coop or yard.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Another important factor to consider is durability and weather resistance. The feeder will be exposed to different weather conditions, including rain, sun, wind, and even snow in some areas.
You want a feeder that can withstand these conditions without rusting or deteriorating quickly. Look for feeders made of sturdy materials like galvanized steel or plastic that won’t crack under extreme temperatures.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Choose a free range chicken feeder that’s easy to clean and maintain. Chickens tend to make a mess when they eat, so you’ll need to clean the feeder regularly to prevent mold or bacteria growth. Look for feeders with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe or easy to scrub clean with soap and water.
Avoid feeders with many nooks and crannies where dirt can accumulate. By considering these factors when choosing a free range chicken feeder, you’ll ensure your chickens get the right amount of food without any hassle on your part.
Benefits of Using a Free Range Chicken Feeder
Reduced Waste and Cost Savings
One of the biggest benefits of using a free range chicken feeder is the reduction in waste and cost savings. Without a feeder, chickens tend to scatter their feed everywhere, making it difficult to keep track of how much is being consumed. This can lead to excess feed being wasted and attracting unwanted pests such as rodents or insects.
By providing a feeder, you can ensure that only the right amount of feed is being dispensed and that there is less chance for waste. This can save you money in the long run by reducing your overall feed costs.
Improved Hygiene and Cleanliness
Another benefit of using a free range chicken feeder is that it can help improve hygiene and cleanliness. Chickens are notoriously messy eaters, often dropping food on the ground and stepping in it, which can lead to contamination.
By using a feeder, you can keep their food off the ground and prevent them from stepping in it. This reduces the risk of spreading harmful bacteria or other contaminants around your coop or yard.
Encourages Natural Feeding Behaviors
Using a free range chicken feeder can help encourage natural feeding behaviors among your flock. Chickens are instinctually programmed to forage for their food, pecking at the ground to find seeds or insects.
By providing them with a feeder that mimics this behavior (such as a trough-style or gravity-fed option), they will be more likely to eat in a way that feels natural to them. This not only improves their overall well-being but also makes them happier and more contented birds overall!
Tips for Proper Use and Maintenance of Free Range Chicken Feeders
Proper Placement to Avoid Contamination
Proper placement is critical to prevent contamination of the feed. It’s important to keep the feeder in a dry, shaded area that is free from pests like rodents or insects.
The feeder should also be elevated off the ground to avoid moisture buildup and prevent chickens from scratching dirt onto the feed. It’s important to ensure that the feeder remains stable even when it’s being used by multiple chickens.
Regular Cleaning to Prevent Mold or Bacteria Growth
Maintaining a clean feeder is crucial for preventing mold or bacteria growth which could harm your flock. Be sure to clean your free range chicken feeder at least once every week, using warm soapy water and a scrub brush.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water before allowing it to air-dry completely before refilling with fresh feed. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew growth on your feeder, discontinue use immediately and replace it with a new one.
Checking for Wear and Tear
It’s important to regularly check for wear and tear on your free range chicken feeder, especially if you have larger flocks or more aggressive birds who may damage the plastic or metal components over time. Inspect the unit thoroughly after each cleaning session, looking for cracks, dents, missing pieces or other signs of damage. If you find any issues with your feeder or notice any parts beginning to loosen up over time, consider replacing them promptly before they become too severe and pose a risk of harm to your birds.
Conclusion
Providing proper feed for free range chickens is vital to their health and well-being. Without adequate nutrition, chickens can become malnourished and susceptible to illness and disease.
Additionally, chicken feed helps promote natural behaviors like foraging, which is essential for their physical and mental stimulation. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in a high-quality chicken feeder that can provide proper nutrition while also encouraging natural behaviors.
Using a free range chicken feeder offers numerous benefits that can positively impact both you and your feathered friends. By reducing waste and cost savings, you can save money in the long run while also promoting sustainability.
A clean and hygienic feeding environment reduces the risk of disease transmission while also improving overall cleanliness around your coop. And last but not least, using an appropriate feeder encourages natural feeding behaviors that can help keep your flock healthy and happy.
