Raising chickens is rewarding, but store-bought feeders can drain your wallet. A DIY chicken feeder solves this problem by letting you build a custom, budget-friendly solution tailored to your flock.
Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or a first-time chicken owner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from materials to maintenance.
Why Build a DIY Chicken Feeder?
Store-bought feeders work, but they’re often bulky, expensive, or prone to pests. A homemade chicken feeder gives you control over the design, size, and materials. Plus, it’s a fun weekend project! Here’s why many flock owners prefer DIY options:
- Cost-effective: Repurpose old buckets, PVC pipes, or wood.
- Customizable: Adjust the size for your coop or flock.
- Reduce waste: Prevent chickens from scratching out feed.
8 Unique DIY Chicken Feeder Designs to Try
1. Bucket-and-Trough Feeder (PVC Version)
This simple design keeps feed dry and deters pests.
Materials:
- 5-gallon bucket
- PVC pipes (4-inch diameter)
- Drill
Steps:
- Drill 3–4 holes near the bucket’s base.
- Insert PVC pipes horizontally into the holes.
- Fill the bucket; gravity dispenses feed into the pipes.
Best For: Large flocks or rainy climates.
2. Muffin Tin + Plastic Bottle Feeder (No-Spill Design)
A DIY chicken feeder that minimizes mess, perfect for chicks or bantams.
Materials:
- Large plastic soda bottle
- Shallow muffin tin
- Utility knife
Steps:
- Cut the bottle’s bottom off.
- Invert it and place the bottle neck into the muffin tin’s center hole.
- Fill the bottle; feed trickles into the tin’s compartments.
Pro Tip: Use a heated nail to melt air holes in the bottle for smoother flow.
3. Hanging Tire Feeder (Upcycled Solution)
Repurpose an old tire into a weatherproof, pest-resistant feeder.
Materials:
- Clean car tire
- Plywood circle (cut to fit inside the tire)
- Chain for hanging
Steps:
- Secure the plywood to the tire’s bottom with screws.
- Fill the tire with feed and hang it at chest height.
- Chickens peck through the tire’s open top.
Why It Works: Elevation deters rodents, and the curved shape reduces spillage.
4. Gutter Feeder for Long Coops
Ideal for narrow coops or multi-bird setups.
Materials:
- Vinyl gutter (6–8 feet long)
- End caps
- Zip ties
Steps:
- Attach end caps to the gutter.
- Mount it horizontally on the coop wall using zip ties.
- Fill with feed; chickens access it along the length.
5. Automatic Dog Bowl Feeder
Convert a gravity-fed pet bowl into a DIY chicken feeder.
Materials:
- Automatic dog food dispenser
- PVC adapter
- Zip ties
Steps:
- Attach a PVC pipe to the dispenser’s outlet.
- Secure the pipe to direct feed into a trough.
- Adjust the dispenser’s portion control for daily rations.
Bonus: Use solar-powered models for off-grid coops.
6. Pallet Wood Hopper Feeder
A farm-style feeder using scrap wood.
Materials:
- Wooden pallet planks
- Hinges
- Waterproof sealant
Steps:
- Build a triangular hopper with a sloped roof.
- Add a hinged lid for easy refilling.
- Seal the wood to prevent rot.
Pro Tip: Add a plexiglass window to monitor feed levels.
7. Solar-Powered Smart Feeder
For tech-savvy flock owners, automate feeding with a solar setup.
Materials:
- Solar panel (10W)
- Arduino microcontroller
- Plastic storage bin
- Servo motor
Steps:
- Attach the servo motor to the bin’s lid.
- Program the Arduino to open the lid at set times.
- Connect the solar panel for off-grid power.
Best For: Busy owners who want scheduled, hands-free feeding.
8. Galvanized Can Feeder (Rust-Proof)
Durable and ideal for humid climates.
Materials:
- Galvanized metal trash can
- Angle grinder
- Metal trough
Steps:
- Cut a horizontal slot near the can’s base.
- Attach a metal trough beneath the slot.
- Fill the can; feed slides into the trough as needed.
Why It Works: Metal resists rust and pests like raccoons.
How to Choose the Right DIY Chicken Feeder
Match your design to your flock’s needs:
| Flock Size | Best Feeder Type | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1–5 chickens | Muffin tin feeder | Compact, low waste |
| 6–15 chickens | Bucket-and-PVC feeder | High capacity, easy refill |
| 15+ chickens | Gutter feeder | Allows simultaneous feeding |
| Free-range | Treadle feeder | Keeps wild birds out |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best DIY chicken feeder can face hiccups. Here’s how to fix them:
Problem: Feed clogs in PVC pipes.
Solution: Use larger-diameter pipes (4+ inches) or mix grit into the feed.
Problem: Chickens roost on the feeder.
Solution: Add a sloped roof or relocate the feeder away from perches.
Problem: Rainwater leaks into the feed.
Solution: Install a rain cover or use sealed containers like galvanized cans.
Seasonal Adjustments for Feeders
Adapt your homemade chicken feeder to weather changes:
- Winter: Use heated bases (for metal troughs) to prevent feed freezing.
- Summer: Add ventilation holes to reduce mold in humid climates.
- Rainy Seasons: Elevate feeders on cinder blocks to avoid flooding.
Expert Insight: “In snowy areas, I attach a tarp over my gutter feeder to keep feed dry,” says Montana homesteader Rick Owens.*
FAQs About DIY Chicken Feeders
Ready to Build Your DIY Chicken Feeder?
With these 8 creative methods, you can craft a feeder that’s practical, affordable, and tailored to your flock’s needs. For more poultry projects, check out our guides on building a chicken coop or natural pest control.
Need help troubleshooting? Contact our experts at Chickiq.com/contact-us for personalized advice!