Chicken Feeders & Drinkers

For flocks of up to 10 hens, a feeder with a 3 to 5kg capacity is usually sufficient depending on breed and appetite. Larger flocks need 6kg or more. The aim is to refill every 2 to 3 days rather than daily, which keeps the routine manageable.

Yes. We stock automated options for both feeding and watering. These are particularly useful if you are away for a day or two, as they provide your flock with consistent access to food and fresh water without you needing to be there.

Keep feeders and drinkers under cover wherever possible to protect them from rain. Raise them slightly off the ground to reduce the amount of dirt and bedding that gets kicked in. Keep them away from the roosting area to avoid droppings contaminating the water.

The simplest solution is to bring drinkers in overnight during cold spells and put them back out in the morning. Insulated drinkers slow the process down. For permanent outdoor setups, a low-wattage drinker heater keeps water flowing even on the coldest nights.

Drinkers need rinsing and refilling daily. Feeders should get a proper clean once a week: tip out any old feed, scrub with a mild poultry-safe disinfectant, rinse well and let them dry fully before refilling. In summer or in humid spots, clean more often as bacteria builds up more quickly in the warmth.

Galvanised metal feeders and drinkers are more durable, easier to scrub clean and last much longer outdoors. Plastic is lighter and less expensive upfront, but can crack in frost and is harder to keep properly sanitised once the surface starts to scratch. For most backyard keepers, metal is the better long-term investment.