DIY Auto Chicken Feeders: Plans & Build Guide

Okay, so you’re thinking about building your own auto chicken feeders, huh? Awesome! Chickens: they are hilarious, yet hungry little dinosaurs, and keeping them fed can feel like a full-time job. The good news is that with a few supplies from Tractor Supply Co., some basic tools like your trusty drill, and a dash of ingenuity inspired by backyard chicken enthusiasts everywhere, you can ditch the daily feed routine. The real deal, though, is finding a solid design and instructions, so let’s get crackin’ and explore plans for DIY auto chicken feeders that even a beginner carpenter can handle!

Crafting the Perfect “DIY Auto Chicken Feeders: Plans & Build Guide” Article

Alright, chicken enthusiasts, let’s dive headfirst into building the ultimate guide for DIY auto chicken feeders! Think of this article as a friendly, hand-holding journey that inspires confidence and gets folks clucking with excitement to build their own. We want them to feel empowered, not overwhelmed!

Here’s the structure I think will keep readers engaged and provide all the information they need:

1. The Hook: Why Auto Chicken Feeders Rock!

• Kick things off with a compelling introduction. Start by painting a picture: "Tired of daily feeding chores? Want to sleep in on weekends while your flock feasts? An auto chicken feeder is your answer!"
• Briefly explain what an auto chicken feeder is and its core benefits. Think convenience, reduced feed waste (important!), pest control, and maybe even vacation peace of mind.
• Use a friendly tone. Imagine you’re chatting with a neighbor over the fence. "These feeders? Game-changers, I tell ya!"

2. Types of Auto Chicken Feeders: Picking Your Project

• This section breaks down the different types of DIY auto feeders you can build.

• Here, a table would be fantastic! Let’s break down the most common types:

  Type of Feeder	Complexity	Materials	Pros	Cons	Best For
  Treadle Feeder	Medium	Wood, metal, hinges	Chicken-activated, good for pest control	Can be tricky to calibrate, not suitable for very young chicks	Small to medium flocks, pest-prone areas
  Gravity Feeder	Easy	PVC pipe, buckets, trays	Simple, cheap, readily available materials	Can be less effective at preventing waste, can attract rodents if not managed properly	Beginners, budget-conscious builders, small flocks
  Automatic Timer Feeder	Hard	Timer, motor, container	Highly automated, consistent feeding schedule	More expensive, requires electrical knowledge, potential for malfunctions	Those who want maximum automation, larger flocks
  Bucket Feeder	Easy	Bucket, PVC elbow, waterproof silicone sealant	Simple, cheap, readily available materials	Can be less effective at preventing waste, can attract rodents if not managed properly	Beginners, budget-conscious builders, small flocks

• For each type, offer a quick overview, outlining the difficulty level (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced), the approximate cost, and the tools you’ll need.

• End this section with a call to action: "Ready to choose your build? Let’s dive into the plans!"

3. The Build Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions

• This is the heart of the article! Choose one feeder type to focus on for a detailed build guide. The treadle feeder is a good choice for its popularity and pest-control benefits.
• Start with a clear list of materials and tools needed. Be specific! Include sizes, quantities, and any helpful notes (e.g., "exterior-grade plywood," "drill with a pilot bit").
• Break down the build into manageable steps. Each step should have:
  • A clear heading (e.g., "Step 1: Building the Base").
  • A concise, easy-to-follow instruction.
  • A high-quality photo or diagram illustrating the step.
• Use encouraging language. "Almost there! You’ve got this!"
• Include safety tips throughout the guide. "Wear safety glasses when cutting wood."
• Troubleshooting. Include a short section that anticipates common problems. For example:
  • "Feeder not dispensing feed? Check for blockages."
  • "Chickens afraid of the treadle? Add some weight to make it easier to trigger."
• Throughout the guide, ask questions to engage the reader like, "Does that make sense?" or "Looking good, right?"

4. Tips & Tricks: Level Up Your Feeder

• Offer suggestions for customizing and improving the feeder. For instance:
  • Adding a rain cover to protect the feed.
  • Using hardware cloth to deter rodents.
  • Painting the feeder with a non-toxic sealant to extend its lifespan.
• Address common concerns:
  • How to train chickens to use the feeder.
  • How often to clean the feeder.
  • How to adjust the feeder for different feed types.
• Keep the tone conversational. "Here’s a little secret: I add a handful of grit to the feeder…".

5. Gallery of Inspiration

• Showcase photos of different DIY auto chicken feeders built by other chicken keepers.
• Add short captions highlighting unique features or modifications.
• This section inspires creativity and shows readers what’s possible.

So, there you have it! Building your own auto chicken feeder might seem a little daunting at first, but with a little elbow grease and these plans, you can save money, reduce feed waste, and keep your flock happy and well-fed. Happy building (and happy chickens)!