Introduction
Are you tired of chickens wasting feed every day? Do you want a simple and cost-effective way to ensure your chickens have access to clean, dry feed at all times? Then you need a chicken feeder.
A chicken feeder is a container or device that allows chickens to access feed without wasting it. It keeps food clean, dry, and safe from pests like rats and wild birds. Store-bought feeders can be expensive, but the good news is that you can make one at home with simple materials like PVC pipes or 5-gallon buckets.
This guide will show you how to make different types of chicken feeders, including a PVC chicken feeder, gravity-fed feeder, and 5-gallon bucket feeder. Each method is simple, affordable, and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re a backyard chicken owner or a small-scale poultry farmer, you’ll learn step-by-step instructions to make a feeder that works for you.
Let’s get started!
What is a Chicken Feeder?
A chicken feeder is a container, device, or system that dispenses chicken feed in a way that minimizes waste and keeps the feed clean and dry. Feeders provide chickens with access to food as needed, ensuring they stay healthy and well-fed.
There are different types of chicken feeders, from simple DIY designs to advanced automatic systems. The main goal of any chicken feeder is to reduce feed wastage, prevent pest infestation, and ensure chickens have constant access to fresh food.
Benefits of Using a Chicken Feeder
- Less Wasted Feed: Prevents chickens from spilling or scattering feed.
- Protects Feed: Keeps the feed dry and clean, even during rain.
- Reduces Pests: Stops rats, mice, and wild birds from eating chicken feed.
- Easy to Refill: Most feeders store large amounts of feed, reducing the need for daily refills.
By making your own feeder, you’ll save money and customize it to suit your chicken flock’s needs.
Types of Chicken Feeders You Can Make at Home
There are several types of DIY chicken feeders you can make at home. Each design has its pros and cons.
1. PVC Chicken Feeder
This is the most popular design. It uses a PVC pipe to create a gravity-fed system where feed flows automatically.
2. 5-Gallon Bucket Feeder
This feeder uses a 5-gallon bucket with holes at the bottom for chickens to access the feed. It’s easy to make and holds a large amount of feed.
3. Gravity-Fed Feeder
This system uses gravity to ensure feed flows down as chickens eat. It’s often made with pipes, buckets, or tubes.
4. Automatic Chicken Feeder
An automatic feeder dispenses feed when chickens step on a platform. It requires a bit more technical work but is effective at keeping pests out.
How to Make a Simple Chicken Feeder at Home
Materials Needed
- 5-gallon bucket
- Plastic feeder ports or PVC pipes
- Hole saw or drill
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Drill Holes: Use a hole saw to make 3-4 holes at the bottom of the bucket.
- Attach Feeder Ports: Insert plastic ports or small PVC pipes into the holes.
- Fill with Feed: Add chicken feed inside the bucket.
- Cover the Lid: Secure the lid to keep the feed dry.
This feeder is simple, weatherproof, and perfect for beginners.
How to Make a PVC Chicken Feeder
Materials Needed
- 3-4 feet PVC pipe (3-4 inches wide)
- 90-degree elbow joint
- End cap
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut the Pipe: Cut a 3-4 foot PVC pipe using a saw.
- Attach Elbow: Connect a 90-degree elbow joint at the bottom.
- Seal the Top: Place an end cap on the top of the pipe.
- Mount the Feeder: Secure it to a wall using brackets or zip ties.
This feeder uses gravity to dispense food and minimizes waste.
How to Make a 5-Gallon Bucket Chicken Feeder
Materials Needed
- 5-gallon bucket
- Hole saw (2-3 inch holes)
- Plastic feeder ports
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut Holes: Cut 3-4 evenly spaced holes near the bottom of the bucket.
- Attach Ports: Insert plastic ports into the holes.
- Fill with Feed: Add feed inside and cover with a lid.
This design stores a lot of feed and is very easy to refill.
How to Make a Gravity-Fed Chicken Feeder
This is similar to the PVC design, but you can use different materials like plastic tubs or recycled materials.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut a Hole in the Bottom: Create a small hole for feed to flow through.
- Attach Feeding Port: Place a PVC elbow or a feeding port at the hole.
- Add Feed: Add chicken feed, and the system will automatically dispense it.
Essential Tips for Using a Chicken Feeder
- Position the Feeder Properly: Keep it off the ground to avoid pests.
- Keep it Dry: Use a cover to keep feed dry.
- Clean it Regularly: Prevent mold and pests by cleaning every week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Chicken Feeder
- Incorrect Size: Too small and chickens can’t access feed.
- No Lid: Feed gets wet and molds without a lid.
- Too Low: Rodents will access it if placed too low.
How to Make Poultry Feeds at Home
- Ingredients: Corn, soybean meal, fish meal, and wheat bran.
- Steps: Mix ingredients based on protein requirements for your chickens.
How to Make a Homemade Chicken Waterer
- Use a 5-gallon bucket.
- Drill a small hole at the base.
- Insert a water port or cup.
Conclusion
Making a chicken feeder at home is simple, cost-effective, and better for your chickens. DIY feeders prevent feed waste, reduce pests, and ensure chickens have access to fresh food at all times. Try the PVC feeder, 5-gallon bucket feeder, or gravity-fed system. Each design works well, and you’ll save money.
Start building your chicken feeder today!
FAQs About Chicken Feeder
1. How do you make a simple chicken feeder?
Answer: Use a bucket, PVC pipe, or a trough system.
2. How to make poultry feeds at home?
Answer: Mix corn, soybean, fish meal, and bran.
3. What size PVC for chicken feeder?
Answer: Use 3-4 inch diameter PVC pipes.
4. How to make a homemade chicken waterer?
Answer: Use a 5-gallon bucket with water cups at the base.
5. What is the best material for a chicken feeder?
Answer: PVC is durable, cheap, and weather-resistant.