Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
the screen lids when you remove the manure. You should be able to move the boxes so you
can do a deep cleaning from time to time. If you do not want to use the manure boxes and
your coop does not have a window, you can put in an easy-to-clean floor, such as linoleum,
under their roosts. If you plan to use linoleum on the entire floor, sprinkle bedding across it
except under the roosts so the chickens can scratch and walk around without hurting their feet.
Pastured Poultry
A common way to raise pastured poultry involves putting 75 to 100 3- to 4-week old meat
chickens in movable pens during the growing season. These floorless 10 foot by 12 foot by 2
foot pens are moved daily by sliding them along the ground, providing fresh pasture. Chick-
ens also receive a grain-based ration. At 8 to 14 weeks, the chickens are butchered.
Feeders and waterers
You also will need to find a space for feeders and waterers in your coop. Waterers can be
placed both inside and outside, but food should be kept strictly inside the coop to avoid luring
outdoor critters to your chickens' home. Feeders come in different sizes, shapes, and prices,
but deep feeders will prevent excess waste because chickens will not spill as much over the
sides.
If you decide to use a trough feeder, fill it only one-third full to help reduce waste. Automated
feeders are available at feed stores and co-ops. These feeders have a timer and will release
food for your birds if you are not available to feed them yourself. You also can make
homemade feeders from buckets and recycled household items. Go online to sites such as
Banty Chicken Domain (
www.bantychicken.com
), and join chicken-owner forums to find
other creative feeder ideas from fellow chicken fanciers. As long as the feeder is secure and
holds enough food, it will work.
Chickens are messy eaters, and one way to help control the mess is to elevate the feeder so it
is about the same height as the back of the chickens. This keeps their feet out of the feeder,
which helps prevent some of the mess. If you would rather not purchase a feeder, you can toss
seed to your birds. This requires a few extra minutes each day but will help you bond with
your flock.
You also will need to purchase water containers. Remember, when you are selecting a waterer
that baby chicks require special attention. If you must use an open bowl, place stones in it so
if a chick falls in, the stones will prevent it from going completely underwater. A nipple-type
