“I’m planning to start raising chickens on my small farm, and I’ve heard that providing grit and oyster shells is important for their health. What are the best grit and oyster shell dispensers for chickens? I want to make sure I choose the right equipment to keep my flock healthy and happy.” Thanks, Walter, Bristol, UK.
The Importance of Grit and Oyster Shell Dispensers for Chickens
Hey Walter! It’s great to hear you’re venturing into chicken farming. You’re absolutely right about the importance of grit and oyster shells for your flock’s health. Let’s explore the best dispensers to keep your chickens happy and thriving in Bristol.
Before we dive into the specifics of dispensers, it’s crucial to understand why grit and oyster shells are so important for chickens. Chickens don’t have teeth, so they rely on grit in their gizzards to grind up their food. Oyster shells, on the other hand, provide calcium that’s essential for strong eggshells. By offering these supplements in the right dispensers, you’ll ensure your chickens have easy access to these vital nutrients.
Top Grit and Oyster Shell Dispensers for Chickens
1. Hanging Feeders
Hanging feeders are a popular choice for many chicken keepers. They’re easy to install, keep the contents dry, and prevent waste. Here are some top options:
- Harris Farms Hanging Poultry Feeder: This durable plastic feeder is perfect for small to medium-sized flocks. It has a 4-pound capacity and can be easily hung in your coop or run.
- Grandpa’s Feeders Automatic Chicken Feeder: While pricier, this feeder is excellent for preventing waste and keeping pests out. It opens when a chicken stands on the treadle, making it ideal for grit and oyster shells.
2. Wall-Mounted Dispensers
Wall-mounted dispensers are great space-savers and keep the supplements off the ground. Some top picks include:
- Little Giant Galvanized Steel Grit and Mineral Feeder: This rust-resistant feeder attaches easily to any wooden surface and has separate compartments for different supplements.
- Royal Rooster Galvanized Grit Feeder: With its sloped design, this feeder ensures a constant supply of grit or oyster shells without waste.
3. Gravity Feeders
Gravity feeders are low-maintenance options that keep a steady supply of grit and oyster shells available. Consider these:
- Miller Manufacturing Galvanized Gravity Feeder: This durable feeder has a 9-pound capacity and can be hung or placed on the ground.
- RentACoop Chicken Feeder: While designed for feed, this PVC pipe feeder works well for grit and oyster shells too. It’s easy to refill and keeps the contents dry.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dispenser
Walter, when selecting the right dispenser for your Bristol flock, keep these factors in mind:
1. Flock Size
The size of your flock will determine the capacity you need. For a small backyard flock, a 2-4 pound dispenser might suffice. Larger flocks will benefit from dispensers with 5+ pound capacities.
2. Weather Resistance
Given Bristol’s variable weather, you’ll want a dispenser that can withstand the elements. Look for rust-resistant materials like galvanized steel or heavy-duty plastic.
3. Ease of Cleaning
Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Choose dispensers with smooth surfaces and few nooks and crannies where debris can accumulate.
4. Waste Prevention
Some chickens can be messy eaters. Look for dispensers with lips or covers that prevent scratching and spilling.
5. Separate Compartments
Dispensers with separate compartments allow you to offer both grit and oyster shells in one unit, saving space and making it easier for your chickens to access both supplements.
DIY Grit and Oyster Shell Dispensers
If you’re handy, Walter, you might consider making your own dispensers. Here are a couple of simple DIY options:
1. PVC Pipe Feeder
Create a simple dispenser using PVC pipes and end caps. Cut a small opening near the bottom for the chickens to access the grit or shells. This design is perfect for mounting on coop walls.
2. Wooden Box Dispenser
Build a shallow wooden box with a sloped bottom and a small opening at the front. Add a hinged lid for easy refilling. This design works well for ground placement or wall mounting.
Proper Placement of Grit and Oyster Shell Dispensers
The location of your dispensers can significantly impact their effectiveness. Here are some tips:
- Place dispensers in a dry area of the coop or run to prevent moisture from contaminating the contents.
- Ensure the dispensers are easily accessible to all chickens, including smaller or less dominant ones.
- Keep dispensers away from nesting boxes to prevent hens from confusing grit or oyster shells with nesting material.
- If using hanging dispensers, place them at a height where chickens can comfortably reach without straining.
Maintaining Your Grit and Oyster Shell Dispensers
To keep your dispensers in top condition and ensure your chickens always have access to clean, fresh grit and oyster shells:
- Clean dispensers regularly (at least once a week) to prevent the buildup of dust, debris, and bacteria.
- Check the contents daily and refill as needed. This is also a good time to remove any accumulated dust or debris.
- Inspect dispensers for damage or wear and tear, especially if they’re exposed to the elements.
- During wet weather, you might need to check more frequently to ensure the contents haven’t become damp or clumped.
How Much Grit and Oyster Shell Do Chickens Need?
Walter, you might be wondering about the right amount of grit and oyster shells to provide. While chickens will generally self-regulate their intake, here are some guidelines:
- Grit: Provide about 1 pound per 100 chickens per month. Free-range chickens might need less as they can find natural grit outdoors.
- Oyster Shells: Laying hens need about 4 pounds per 100 birds per month. Non-laying chickens and roosters don’t need additional calcium supplements.
Remember, these are just estimates. Observe your flock and adjust as needed. If you notice soft-shelled eggs, your hens might need more oyster shells.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As you set up your grit and oyster shell dispensers, be aware of these common pitfalls:
- Mixing grit and oyster shells: While some chickens can differentiate, it’s best to offer these supplements separately.
- Overfeeding calcium to non-laying chickens: Too much calcium can be harmful to chickens not actively laying eggs.
- Using the wrong size grit: Chickens need different sizes of grit depending on their age. Chicks need finer grit than adult birds.
- Neglecting to clean dispensers: Dirty dispensers can harbor harmful bacteria and discourage chickens from using them.
Final Thoughts…
Walter, choosing the right grit and oyster shell dispensers is a crucial step in setting up your chicken coop in Bristol. Remember, the best dispenser for you will depend on your flock size, coop setup, and personal preferences. Whether you opt for a commercial product or decide to build your own, the key is to ensure your chickens have consistent access to clean, dry grit and oyster shells.
Thanks for reaching out with this important question. Your attention to these details shows you’re on the right track to becoming a great chicken keeper. As you embark on this exciting journey, don’t hesitate to keep asking questions and learning. Your chickens will thrive under your thoughtful care. Best of luck with your new flock!
