can I simply fill a bucket with water?

[midwife mama]

I have been using a plastic waterer that is a huge pain in the butt. While house sitting for other chicken owners I learned that they simply fill up a bucket with water every day? Is there a problem with doing this? I assume their chickens had no problem slurping it out. They seemed healthy, robust. Thanks!

 

[bburn]

they can fall in it and drown....

 

[paddock36]

Depending on the size of the bucket and the chickens they could fall in and drown, especially chicks, but otherwise they will drink out of anything. Mine used to drink out of the ducks pool when I let them out to free range.

 

[Imp]

I just use bowls for everything. I too thought chicken waterers and feeders were a PITB.

Imp

 

[Matt A NC]

I used a 2.5 gallon bucket for years without a problem. This was for standard size birds with no chicks around. Once a week I would empty the bucket and clean out any algea that would be there with a little bleach water. Rinse well and then refill. Just added some each day to keep it full.

Matt

 

[ranchhand]

I gave up on the commercial plastic water containers, a royal PITA. Now I use plastic dishpans from the dollar store. I only use the waterers when I have chicks around. The dishpans are cheaper, much easier to clean and refill. Sometimes, on really hot days, the hens will stand in them!

 

[midwife mama]

Thanks! They are about a year old, full standards, hearty breeds. I think they'll be fine.

Do full do you fill your buckets?

 

[ranchhand]

Since I use dishpans, I fill them completely. With a deeper bucket type shape, I see a potential problem. They will hop up on the edge as a way to reach the water and tump it over.

As a side note, I use dishpans for nest boxes, too.

 

[halo]

Dishpans are a great idea. I, also, think those plastic waterers are a huge pain. Impossible to keep clean, too big to lug around.

 

[ranchhand]

Quote:
My feet always get wet.

Not so bad in summer, but in winter? ACK!)