I’m sure that the more experienced chicken keepers out there already have their methods well worked out, but I wanted to share a couple of things we’ve learned along the way, in hopes that it might help others who are new to it.
First, you will likely end up with one of these types of waterers if you go to Tractor Supply (or other places selling them.)
These are pretty common, and the price is usually right (about $5 for a 1 gallon size.) However, you may find that they are difficult to service when it comes to replacing the water, especially in the 3.5 gallon size. The best way I’ve found is to tip it upside down outside and set it down in the grass. Then, as you twist the red base, push down a little so that it sinks into the ground a bit. This will provide the resistance needed so that you can unlatch and then re-latch the base to the tank. Until I figured that out, I had some frustrating accidents with spilled water, as I attempted to use my feet or knees to hold the tank stable on the coop floor. Since all of my water filling operations take place outside now, I haven’t had that issue, and even if I did, big deal, I’m watering the lawn.
The other tip is for those, like us, who do not have the luxury of running water in their coop or barn yet. I would hate to have to trek up the hill to our house with each and every chicken waterer (there are four total) and our goats water buckets (two) to use the garden hose. Rather, I fill up two of these jugs and haul them down. (It’s a great workout on the arms, at apx 25 lbs each, let me tell you.)
Holy Adam West Era Camera Angle, Batman!
The jugs are just old Tidy Cat litter containers that I removed the labels from and rinsed out well. No way do I pay extra for containers when they are being provided to me with another product anyway! Even if you don’t have a cat, check with friends that do, or the local shelter, to see if you can have their discards.
So that’s my public service announcement for the day! Watch for a few new shots being added to the photo album shortly. If you are suffering in the heat and humidity like we are, make sure to enjoy some iced tea, Mojito, or another cold beverage of your choice!
P.S. The girls gave us three more eggs today – and each was in a nest box. Thanks, chickie-doodles!
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