Build a cost-effective, durable homemade chicken feeder and simplify your poultry care routine! Our guide provides 15 homemade DIY chicken feeder ideas to ensure your flock’s environment remains clean and well-fed. These homemade chicken feeder ideas utilize recycled materials and offer a range of feeder types, including automatic systems, to streamline your chicken care tasks.
Maintaining a chicken coop involves more than just regular cleaning; it’s about ensuring efficient meat production and constant feed supply. That’s where our easy-to-follow DIY chicken feeder ideas come in. Designed to simplify your poultry management, these DIY chicken feeders reduce spillage and keep living spaces hygienic.
From using a PVC chicken feeder to 5-gallon plastic buckets to plastic bottles, these DIY chicken feeder ideas will use various recycled materials to build automatic chicken feeding systems! Read on to learn how to make a feeder that suits your needs and keeps your chickens clucking happily.
Now, let’s explore how to build a simple yet effective feeder that is perfect for keeping your chickens nourished and your coop tidy.
Why Build Your Own DIY Chicken Feeder?
Building your own DIY chicken feeder is a smart and cost-effective choice for any poultry keeper. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider this project:
1. Cost Savings:
- Home Construction: Crafting a feeder yourself can significantly cut costs compared to purchasing pre-made options. By using affordable or recycled materials, you can manage your budget while ensuring your chickens are well-fed.
2. Tailored to Your Needs:
- Customization: Every flock is unique, and building your own feeder allows you to customize its size, capacity, and design to perfectly match your chickens’ needs.
- Adaptability: A DIY feeder can be easily modified as your flock grows or as you learn more about their specific feeding habits and preferences.
3. Waste Reduction:
- Efficient Feeding: Homemade feeders can be designed to minimize spillage, reducing feed waste and saving money over time.
- Pest Prevention: A well-designed DIY feeder can help deter rodents and wild birds, which are attracted to spilled feed and can introduce diseases to your flock.
4. Fun and Fulfillment:
- DIY Satisfaction: There’s a sense of accomplishment and pride in making something with your own hands that serves a practical purpose for your chickens.
- Family Activity: Building a chicken feeder can be a great family project that involves teamwork and teaches valuable skills.
By choosing to build a DIY chicken feeder, you’re investing in a customized, cost-effective, and waste-reducing solution for your poultry care needs, all while enjoying the process of creation.
How to Build a Simple PVC Pipe Chicken Feeder
Building your own chicken feeder can be a rewarding project that saves you money and reduces feed waste. Here’s a helpful guide on making a straightforward PVC pipe chicken feeder that’s perfect for any backyard flock.
Materials Needed:
- PVC pipe (4-inch diameter)
- PVC pipe cap (4-inch)
- PVC Wye connector (4-inch)
- PVC pipe glue
- Saw
- Sandpaper
- Drill with drill bits
- Screws and brackets for mounting
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cut the PVC Pipe:
Determine the height you want for your feeder and use a saw to cut your PVC pipe to the desired length. A height of about 2 to 3 feet is common.
2. Prepare the Pipe Ends:
Smooth any rough edges with sandpaper to ensure the safety of your chickens and ease of assembly.
3. Attach the Wye Connector:
- Apply PVC pipe glue around the inside edge of the Wye connector.
- Firmly attach one end of the cut PVC pipe into the straight end of the Wye connector. Let it set as per the glue instructions.
4. Cap the Top:
Glue the PVC cap to the top end of the PVC pipe to keep out debris and pests.
5. Drill Feeding Holes:
Use a drill to make feeding holes in the Wye connector. Make sure the holes are large enough for your chickens to peck through but not so large that feed spills out excessively.
6. Mount the Feeder:
- Choose a spot in your chicken coop for the feeder.
- Use brackets and screws to secure the feeder to the coop wall or a post. Make sure it’s at a comfortable height for your chickens.
7. Fill and Test:
- Pour chicken feed into the top of the PVC pipe and watch as it flows down into the Wye connector.
- Observe your chickens using the feeder and make any adjustments if needed.
Tips for Success:
- Clean Regularly: Ensure your feeder remains hygienic by cleaning it regularly to prevent mold and pests.
- Monitor Feed Levels: Keep an eye on feed levels to refill the feeder as necessary.
- Adjust Hole Size: If you notice too much feed spillage, you may need to reduce the size of the feeding holes.
Building your own PVC pipe chicken feeder is a simple and efficient way to provide a steady supply of feed to your chickens. It’s cost-effective, reduces waste, and can be easily customized to suit your needs. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting something beneficial for your feathered friends!
FAQs About DIY Chicken Feeders
Get answers to commonly asked questions about DIY chicken feeders. Find out how to create your own chicken feeders and provide for your flock.
Why should I consider building my own DIY chicken feeder?
Building your own chicken feeder can save you money, allow for customization, reduce feed waste, and provide a fun and fulfilling DIY project that you can take pride in.
What materials do I need to build a simple PVC chicken feeder?
To build a simple PVC chicken feeder, you will need a 4-inch diameter PVC pipe, a matching pipe cap, a PVC Wye connector, PVC pipe glue, a saw, sandpaper, a drill with drill bits, and screws and brackets for mounting.
How can I ensure my homemade feeder reduces feed waste?
Design your feeder to minimize spillage, for example by using a Wye connector with appropriately sized holes, and consider adding modifications such as a lip to prevent feed from being knocked out by the chickens.
Can I make a chicken feeder that deters pests?
Yes, a well-designed DIY chicken feeder can help deter rodents and wild birds. Ensure that your feeder does not have large gaps and consider a treadle feeder design that only opens when a chicken steps on the treadle.
What are the steps to building a PVC pipe chicken feeder?
- Cut the PVC pipe to your desired height.
- Smooth the pipe ends with sandpaper.
- Attach the Wye connector using PVC glue.
- Cap the top with a glued PVC cap.
- Drill feeding holes in the Wye connector.
- Mount the feeder at a comfortable height for the chickens.
- Fill it with feed and observe its use.
Is it necessary to clean my DIY chicken feeder?
Yes, regular cleaning is important to maintain hygiene, prevent mold, and deter pests. Clean your feeder according to how frequently it is used and the conditions in your coop.
What should I do if my chickens spill too much feed from the feeder?
If there’s excessive spillage, you may need to adjust the size of the feeding holes or add barriers around the feeding area to contain the feed.
Can a DIY feeder be made to feed chickens for an extended period, like during a vacation?
Absolutely! You can build a high-capacity feeder, such as a gravity feeder or one with a large storage container, that can supply feed for up to two weeks or more, depending on the size of your flock.
How do I ensure my chicken feeder is at the correct height?
The feeder should be positioned at the height of the back of your smallest chicken. This helps prevent feed spillage and allows all chickens to access the feed comfortably.
Remember, whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or new to poultry care, building your own chicken feeder can be a satisfying project that caters to the specific needs of your flock while also being kind to your wallet.
DIY Chicken Feeder Ideas
Discover clever and practical DIY chicken feeder ideas to keep your flock happy and well-fed. Find inspiration for homemade chicken feeders that are both functional and cost-effective.
1. Cheap DIY PVC Pipe Chicken Feeders
Discover how to make your own DIY chicken feeders from PVC with the informative guide on Sugar Maple Farmhouse. Learn the benefits of using PVC to make a cost-effective and vermin-resistant feeding solution for your chickens. The step-by-step instructions provide a practical approach to constructing feeders that reduce waste and protect your flock’s feed from moisture and mold.
With easy-to-find materials and simple modifications, you can ensure a steady supply of dry feed for your chickens. This method is not only efficient but also promotes organic raising practices, perfect for those committed to a healthy and sustainable chicken-keeping lifestyle.
2. How to Make a PVC Chicken Feeder
Making a PVC chicken feeder is a practical and cost-effective solution for poultry enthusiasts. Instructables offers a comprehensive guide on constructing a feeder that is simple to fill, spill-resistant, and durable against various weather conditions.
This feeder design also deters unwanted pests, ensuring that your chickens have uninterrupted access to their feed. The instructions are clear and user-friendly, with an emphasis on affordability and ease of assembly. Perfect for backyard farmers, this DIY project will enhance your chicken care routine, promoting a cleaner and more efficient feeding system.
3. Handmade No-Spill Chicken Feeder
Make a no-spill chicken feeder with ease using PVC pipes and a few connectors, as demonstrated on The Art of Doing Stuff. This DIY project is a smart solution for poultry owners who are tired of wasted feed due to their chickens scattering food. A no-spill feeder not only cuts down on waste but also helps deter rodents attracted by spilled grain.
The instructions are simple, requiring no glue—just a bit of assembly akin to building with blocks. With this feeder, chickens can dine without making a mess, and you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a tidy coop and the potential for fewer uninvited pests.
Find more DIY Projects for Chickens:
Do you need a portable chicken coop? Follow these free DIY portable chicken coop plans that include full instructions to craft a movable chicken coop.
DIY chicken tractor: You can build your own cheap chicken tractor using PVC Pipe and other recycled materials. See these free DIY chicken tractor plans to make a portable chicken tractor!
Chicken nesting boxes: How to build easy and budget-friendly chicken nesting boxes? Check out these diy chicken nesting boxes for making your own best chicken nesting box!
DIY chicken brooder: Brooding chicks doesn’t have to break the bank, in fact, there are plenty of ways you can make one yourself! But what is a chicken brooder? What dimensions should it be, and what must it have to keep chicks safe, warm and healthy? How to make a brooder box for chicks? See these diy chicken brooder plans to build one yourself.
4. Building a Gravity Chicken Feeder
Looking to simplify your chicken-feeding routine? Christopher Finke‘s DIY gravity chicken feeder is a smart solution. By making a feeder that dispenses feed through gravity, you save time and prevent your chickens from getting hungry enough to peck at toes. The design includes a hopper for feed and a controlled opening at the bottom, ensuring feed is accessible yet not wasted.
Finke’s guide is clear, complete with images and steps for constructing this handy feeder from plywood. The added lip modification minimizes spillage, proving it’s a practical project for any chicken keeper. Visit Less Talk, More Do for a detailed walkthrough on building your own gravity-powered chicken feeder.
5. DIY 5-Gallon Buckets Chicken Waterer and Feeder
Looking to provide your backyard chickens with fresh water and feed? Bless this Mess offers a clear and engaging guide to crafting your own DIY chicken waterer and feeder using 5-gallon buckets. This cost-effective and simple solution ensures your poultry stay hydrated and well-fed.
With step-by-step instructions and handy visuals, this tutorial helps you make a reliable system for your flock with everyday items. Perfect for homesteaders and chicken enthusiasts, this practical approach to poultry care is both helpful and straightforward, keeping your chickens thriving without breaking the bank.
6. Homemade Treadle Chicken Feeder
Learn how to build a treadle chicken feeder with this comprehensive guide from BackYard Chickens. Protect your chicken feed from wild birds and reduce waste with a DIY feeder that opens only when your chickens step on the treadle. This step-by-step tutorial offers clear instructions to ensure your flock gets their food while keeping pests out. With detailed plans, a list of tools, and helpful tips, you’ll make a feeder that’s both functional and durable. Perfect for chicken enthusiasts looking to enhance their coop, this guide is an invaluable resource for a practical poultry project.
7. How to Build a Treadle Chicken Feeder
Looking to build a practical and efficient treadle chicken feeder? Our free plans guide you through the process with clarity and ease. Constructing this feeder is straightforward, requiring a cedar board, plywood, and common hardware. The step-by-step instructions ensure a smooth build, from cutting the pieces to assembling the lid and treadle linkage.
This DIY project not only keeps your feed secure from pests but also promotes responsible feeding practices for your poultry. By crafting this feeder, you enhance your chickens’ environment with a durable and self-serving feeding solution. Get started today and make a valuable addition to your coop with our helpful plans. Wood Working Corner
8. Affordable DIY Pvc Chicken Feeder
For those with a passion for poultry and DIY, making a PVC chicken feeder from Instructables is a practical project that will streamline your chicken-feeding process and reduce waste. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to help you construct a durable feeder that’s easy to fill and maintain.
With the right tools and materials, you can ensure your chickens are well-fed with minimal mess. Perfect for backyard chicken keepers, this feeder solution is cost-effective and can be customized to fit the specific needs of your flock. Get ready to enhance your coop with this ingenious feeding hack.
9. Make a PVC Pipe Chicken Feeder
Looking to streamline your chicken feeding process? YouTube offers a fantastic tutorial on making a PVC chicken feeder that’s not only quick and easy to construct but also highly efficient. This DIY project involves standard PVC pipes and fittings, ensuring a durable and low-maintenance solution for your feathered friends.
The video guide, presented by Matt’s Finds, is clear and instructive, making it perfect for anyone wanting to enhance their chicken coop with a homemade feeder. By following these steps, you can provide a consistent food supply for your chickens, reduce waste, and save time on daily feedings. The design is simple, adaptable to your coop’s specific needs, and a great weekend project that could improve your poultry care routine.
10. Build Your Own Chicken Feeder at Home
If you’re an avid chicken keeper dealing with a dust allergy or simply looking to reduce your daily chores, Hawk Hill has an innovative solution. Their guide on constructing a 2-week chicken feeder is a game-changer. It details how to make a high-capacity feeder using common materials like plastic buckets and a metal feed pan. The instructive walkthrough is complete with tips on cutting, assembling, and securing the feeder, ensuring a steady supply of feed for your flock while minimizing maintenance.
Keep in mind that regular checks for clean water and feed pan cleanliness are essential, even with this convenient setup. Additionally, be mindful of securing the feeder to prevent toppling and take measures against potential rodent visitors. With Hawk Hill’s help, your chicken care routine can become more efficient and less burdensome.
11. DIY Mess-Free Chicken Feeder
Making a mess-free chicken feeder is a game-changer for any backyard chicken keeper. This DIY bucket feeder design is shared by DIY Projects for everyone! Is a practical solution to common poultry-feeding problems. It helps prevent feed wastage and deters pests, ensuring your chickens dine without scattering their meal or attracting unwanted guests.
The feeder, which uses PVC elbows and a medium-sized bucket, is straightforward to assemble and customizable based on the number of chickens you have. Adding a clear plastic window allows for easy monitoring of feed levels. With clear instructions and a list of materials and tools, this guide is here to help you build a tidy feeding system that’s both efficient and easy to use.
12. How to Make Chicken Feeders – Step by Step
Raising healthy chickens starts with proper hydration and nutrition, and Barefooting Outside the Box offers a practical guide to constructing economical and efficient feeders and waterers. Learn how to use simple materials like buckets, lids, and pans from any local supply store to make these essential poultry accessories.
With step-by-step instructions, you’ll craft a waterer that maintains a steady supply of fresh water and a feeder that ensures your chickens have access to food without waste. This DIY approach is cost-effective, customizable to your flock’s size, and easy to maintain, keeping your feathered friends happy and thriving. Bare Foot Ones
13. Make Your Own PVC Chicken Feeder
Planning a vacation and worried about your chicken’s feeding routine? The Project Lady offers a DIY solution with a homemade PVC chicken feeder that’s easy to build and ensures your flock is well-fed while you’re away. With a simple list of materials like a 3″ PVC cap and pipes, you can make an efficient feeder that prevents wastage and is adjustable in height.
This system is not glued, making it flexible for future modifications. The feeder is secured with strapping and topped with a removable lid for easy refilling. It’s a practical project for chicken owners looking to save time and reduce feed spillage.
14. Inexpensive DIY Automatic Chicken Feeder
Are you keen to make an automatic chicken feeder using a simple water bottle? Look to Craft Village’s YouTube tutorial for a clever DIY solution. This engaging video guides you through each step, showing you how to transform a common household item into a functional feeder for your feathered friends.
It’s an ideal project for those who love to repurpose and innovate, ensuring your chickens have a steady supply of food with minimal waste. The instructions are clear, making it easy to follow along, and the result is a practical and cost-effective feeder. Perfect for poultry enthusiasts, this video empowers you to enhance your coop with a homemade touch.
15. Making a Chicken Feeder Using Plastic Bottle
Making an automatic chicken feeder from a plastic bottle is a clever and sustainable way to ensure your feathered friends are always fed. In this engaging YouTube tutorial, viewers can learn how to transform a simple plastic container into a functional feeder for their poultry. This DIY project is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, repurposing bottles that might otherwise end up in landfills.
The step-by-step instructions are clear, making it easy for anyone to follow along and craft a feeder that’s perfect for their coop. Whether you have a small backyard flock or a larger brood, this homemade feeder solution on YouTube is a resourceful way to maintain a steady supply of chicken feed with minimal waste.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our guide offers a plethora of DIY chicken feeder ideas that cater to the needs of your feathered friends while keeping their environment clean and orderly. With these 15 homemade DIY chicken feeder ideas, you can ensure your flock is well-fed using inventive solutions that emphasize sustainability through the use of recycled materials. Embrace the satisfaction of constructing a personalized feeder that not only saves money but also streamlines your poultry management tasks. Keep your coop thriving with these clever, cost-effective feeding systems, and enjoy the rewards of a happy, healthy flock.