The Poultry Keeper

jooles · Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 10:36 am Post subject: Lots more questions ...

Ok, I've just looked at Ascotts website at feeders and drinkers. There are so many Shocked

, and such a range of prices. I've got to choose galvanised or plastic, and what size do I get for, say, 3 to 5 birds? (Notice I started by saying 3, now it's creeping up to 5 Razz

).

Do I have just the one feeder and drinker for them all to share or should I spread it about a bit more. Will the birds share nicely or are they possessive over their food?

I also understand that I have to provide grit. Should I put this in a container or spread it around for them to find? What sort of grit is best?

And one more thing - nestboxes. Should I have a separate nest box on the side of the house or is it ok in the main bit of the house?
Question

Jooles

CP · Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 10:45 am Post subject:

Hi Jooles.

It's easy to get confused over what to buy. I know I do!

Galvanised is the best for longevity, though it's more expensive. You can't use it when you give ACV in the water as it corrodes.

With just a few chickens it should be OK just to have the one, but you can get bullies in the chicken world, so keep an eye out for any chook that seems to be getting thinner! Rolling Eyes

The grit you can provide in a container & they will eat it as they need it. Up until recently, we used just a metal dish (under cover so it didn't get waterlogged) but now we have a grit hopper.

Best to have a separate nestbox as they like some privacy & darkness usually. Though there are some that will lay just about anywhere! Very Happy

summayah · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 4289 Location: luton

All my girls that are laying, lay in the nest boxes, apart from one ~ a meadowsweet girl, she insists on laying under one of the smaller houses that are on 12" legs.