DIY Automatic Chicken Feeder Guide How To Build One

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Hey guys! Ever wondered how to keep your feathered friends happy and well-fed without the daily hassle? You're in the right place! Happy chickens mean more eggs, and what better way to keep them content than with their very own automatic chicken feeder? This guide will walk you through creating a DIY chicken feeder that not only saves you time but also ensures your chickens have a consistent food supply. Let's dive in!

Why Build an Automatic Chicken Feeder?

Before we get our hands dirty, let's talk about why an automatic chicken feeder is a game-changer. Think about it: no more rushing out in the rain to fill the feeder, and no more worrying about overfeeding or underfeeding your flock. An automatic feeder distributes feed on a schedule, ensuring your chickens get the right amount of food at the right times.

  • Convenience is Key: Life gets busy, and sometimes daily chores can feel overwhelming. An automatic chicken feeder takes one task off your plate, freeing up your time for other things. Imagine sleeping in a little later on weekends or taking a spontaneous trip without stressing about who will feed the chickens. This convenience is a massive win for any chicken owner.
  • Consistent Feeding Schedule: Chickens thrive on routine. A consistent feeding schedule helps regulate their laying cycle and overall health. With an automatic chicken feeder, you can ensure your chickens are fed at the same time every day, promoting a happy and healthy flock. This consistency can lead to better egg production and fewer health issues.
  • Reduced Food Waste: Traditional feeders can be prone to spillage and attract unwanted pests. An automatic feeder dispenses only the necessary amount of food, minimizing waste and saving you money in the long run. This not only benefits your wallet but also reduces the risk of attracting rodents and other critters to your coop.
  • Pest Control: Speaking of pests, an automatic feeder can significantly reduce pest problems. By controlling the amount of food available, you're less likely to attract rodents and wild birds. Many designs also incorporate features that make it difficult for pests to access the feed, ensuring your chickens are the only ones enjoying the meal.
  • Customization Options: Building your own automatic chicken feeder means you can customize it to fit your specific needs. Whether you have a small backyard flock or a larger operation, you can design a feeder that meets your requirements. This customization allows you to optimize your feeding system for maximum efficiency and convenience.

Planning Your Automatic Chicken Feeder

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of an automatic chicken feeder. Awesome! Now, let's plan this thing out. Planning is crucial to ensure your feeder meets your needs and lasts for years to come. First, you need to decide on the design. There are several types of automatic chicken feeders you can build, each with its own pros and cons. Consider your skill level, the materials you have on hand, and the size of your flock when making your decision.

  • Types of Automatic Chicken Feeders:
    • Gravity Feeders: These feeders rely on gravity to dispense food. They typically consist of a large container that holds the feed and a trough or pan at the bottom where the chickens can access it. As the chickens eat, more feed flows down from the container. Gravity feeders are simple to build and maintain, making them a great option for beginners.
    • Timed Feeders: Timed feeders use a timer to dispense a set amount of food at specific intervals. These feeders can be more complex to build, but they offer greater control over feeding schedules. They're ideal for chicken owners who want to ensure their flock is fed at consistent times each day.
    • Treadle Feeders: Treadle feeders are designed to prevent pests from accessing the feed. They feature a platform that the chickens must step on to open the feeder and access the food. Treadle feeders are a great option for those dealing with rodent or wild bird problems.
  • Materials You'll Need: Once you've chosen a design, gather your materials. Common materials for building automatic chicken feeders include PVC pipe, plastic containers, wood, and metal. Consider using recycled materials whenever possible to save money and reduce waste. You'll also need basic tools like a drill, saw, and measuring tape.
  • Size and Capacity: Think about the size of your flock and how much food they need each day. This will determine the size and capacity of your feeder. A good rule of thumb is to provide each chicken with about 1/4 pound of feed per day. Make sure your feeder can hold enough food to last for several days, especially if you're planning to be away from home.
  • Placement: Consider where you'll place your feeder in the coop or run. It should be in a dry, sheltered location to protect the feed from the elements. The feeder should also be easily accessible to your chickens but out of reach of pests. Elevating the feeder slightly can help prevent rodents from accessing it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Simple Gravity Feeder

For this guide, we'll focus on building a simple gravity feeder – it’s a great starting point for your automatic chicken feeder journey! This design is easy to construct and requires minimal materials. Let's get started!

Materials You'll Need:

  • One 5-gallon plastic bucket with a lid
  • PVC pipe (4-inch diameter, about 2 feet long)
  • PVC elbow joints (two)
  • Drill with various sized drill bits
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Bucket: Start by cleaning the 5-gallon bucket thoroughly. Make sure there are no residues or contaminants that could harm your chickens. Let it dry completely before proceeding.
  2. Mark the Holes: Turn the bucket upside down and use a pencil to mark two circles on the side, near the bottom. These circles will be the openings for the PVC pipes. Use the diameter of the PVC pipe as a guide for the size of the circles. Ensure the circles are spaced far enough apart to allow chickens to feed comfortably.
  3. Drill the Holes: Using a drill with a hole saw attachment or a large drill bit, carefully drill out the marked circles. Take your time and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying debris. Smooth the edges of the holes with sandpaper or a file to prevent any sharp edges.
  4. Assemble the PVC Pipes: Connect the PVC elbow joints to the ends of the PVC pipe. This will create two L-shaped pipes. These pipes will serve as the feeding troughs for your chickens.
  5. Insert the PVC Pipes: Insert the open ends of the PVC pipes into the holes you drilled in the bucket. The elbow joints should be facing downwards, forming the feeding troughs. Make sure the pipes fit snugly into the holes. If necessary, you can use PVC cement to secure them in place, but this is usually not required.
  6. Test the Feeder: Before filling the feeder with feed, test it by placing a small amount of feed in the bucket. Observe how the feed flows into the PVC troughs. If the feed flows smoothly, you're good to go. If not, you may need to adjust the position of the pipes or enlarge the holes slightly.
  7. Fill and Place the Feeder: Once you're satisfied with the functionality of the feeder, fill the bucket with chicken feed. Place the lid securely on the bucket to protect the feed from rain and pests. Position the feeder in your chicken coop or run, ensuring it's easily accessible to your chickens.

Maintaining Your Automatic Chicken Feeder

So, you've built your automatic chicken feeder – congratulations! Now, let's talk about maintenance. Like any piece of equipment, your feeder needs regular care to ensure it functions properly and keeps your chickens healthy. Proper maintenance will also extend the lifespan of your feeder, saving you time and money in the long run.

  • Regular Cleaning: Clean your feeder at least once a month, or more frequently if needed. Remove any old feed and debris from the bucket and troughs. Wash the feeder with soap and water, and rinse it thoroughly. Allow it to dry completely before refilling it with feed. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of mold and bacteria, which can harm your chickens.
  • Check for Damage: Inspect your feeder regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further issues. Check the PVC pipes for cracks or breaks, and replace them if necessary. A well-maintained feeder will function more efficiently and last longer.
  • Monitor Feed Levels: Keep an eye on the feed levels in your feeder. Make sure your chickens always have access to fresh food, but avoid overfilling the feeder, which can lead to waste. Adjust the amount of feed you provide based on your chickens' needs and the season. During colder months, chickens may require more food to maintain their body temperature.
  • Pest Control: Even with an automatic chicken feeder, pests can still be an issue. Check around the feeder for signs of rodents or wild birds. Take steps to control pests, such as setting traps or using pest-repellent products. Keeping your coop and run clean can also help deter pests.
  • Adjust as Needed: As your chickens grow and their needs change, you may need to adjust your feeding system. If you add more chickens to your flock, you may need to build additional feeders or increase the capacity of your existing feeder. Be flexible and adapt your system to meet your chickens' needs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the best automatic chicken feeders can sometimes encounter problems. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues will help you keep your feeder running smoothly and your chickens happy. Let's look at some common issues and how to fix them.

  • Feed Not Dispensing: If the feed isn't dispensing properly, check for blockages in the pipes or the bucket. Sometimes, feed can clump together or get stuck, preventing it from flowing freely. Use a stick or other tool to dislodge any blockages. Make sure the holes in the bucket are large enough to allow the feed to flow easily.
  • Feed Spillage: If you're experiencing feed spillage, it could be due to several factors. The feeder may be overfilled, or the chickens may be kicking feed out of the troughs. Try reducing the amount of feed you put in the feeder or adjusting the height of the troughs. You can also add a lip to the troughs to prevent feed from being kicked out.
  • Pest Problems: If you're having trouble with pests, make sure your feeder is properly sealed and protected. Use a lid on the bucket to prevent rodents and wild birds from accessing the feed. You can also try elevating the feeder to make it harder for pests to reach. Consider using a treadle feeder if pests are a persistent problem.
  • Chickens Not Using the Feeder: If your chickens aren't using the feeder, they may need some time to adjust to the new system. Try placing some feed on the ground near the feeder to attract their attention. You can also try removing other food sources to encourage them to use the feeder. Be patient and consistent, and they'll eventually get the hang of it.
  • Feeder Damage: If your feeder is damaged, repair it promptly to prevent further issues. Cracks or breaks can allow pests to enter and contaminate the feed. Replace any damaged parts as needed. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent damage from occurring in the first place.

Conclusion

Building an automatic chicken feeder is a rewarding project that can save you time and ensure your chickens are well-fed. By following this guide, you can create a custom feeder that meets your specific needs and helps keep your flock happy and healthy. Remember to plan your design, choose the right materials, and maintain your feeder regularly. With a little effort, you'll have a reliable feeding system that will benefit you and your chickens for years to come. Happy building!