The Problems with a Treadle Chicken feeder
The problems with a Chicken Treadle Feeder
A treadle feeder is typically a galvanised sheet metal feed box with a covered lid that opens when a chicken stands on the treadle step. This concept has been around for many years and is available in various sizes to suit small, medium, and large flocks.
At first glance, the idea seems flawless: a hungry chicken steps on the treadle, the lid opens, the chicken feeds, and when the chicken is done, the lid closes. However, we quickly discovered that the reality is different. The chicken treadle feeders have some design flaws which can cost you money, feed and the health of your flock. Even worse, we noticed that despite the promise of being rodent-proof, the treadle feeder didn’t solve the rat problem.
That's why we set out to make a the best chicken feeder on the market that would stop the feed waste and other problems treadle feeders have.
How step-on chicken feeders work?
Step-on chicken feeders work by using a treadle mechanism that opens the feeder's lid when a chicken steps on the treadle platform.
As the chicken applies weight to the step, the lid lifts, revealing the feed inside the container. This design is intended to allow chickens to access their food while keeping it covered when not in use, helping to protect the feed from weather and pests.
However, while the concept is simple, these feeders can sometimes be outsmarted by clever pests like rats, which can work together to open the lid and access the feed.
Sounds like a smart idea, but why do we not recommend treadle feeders for backyard chicken keepers like yourself?
Treadle feeders are not rodent-proof
Even though the concept of a treadle feeder appears like it might solve rat problems, in some cases they make it worse. Do not underestimate how smart rats are.
Once they clue on the where the feed is, they work out how to access it. Surprisingly, as a group, they stand as a group on the treadle and open the feed bay. There are dozens of articles on the internet about this exact problem.
Treadle feeders do not stop feed waste
A standard treadle feeder is just a big metal box with a lid.
Nothing in the design or engineering stops feed being raked out onto the floor. As a result, it is questionable how much money a treadle feeder will coast you in the long term. There are three significant problems with feed on the coop or pen floor:
- It attracts rats and vermin
- Uneaten feed on the floor wastes your money.
- When eaten, it can harm the health of your hens. To be sure it is understood, feed contaminated with faeces (chicken poop) is a bad thing. Contaminated feed carries disease and illness throughout the flock.
Even if you install a floating steel grate with large apertures on the top of the feed although it lessens feed waste, it doesn't prevent it entirely.
Treadle feeders do not prevent feed getting wet
The feed will get wet if the lid is open during rain. If the rain is blowing in from the direction of the open lid when hens are feeding then feed will get wet and spoil. The other problem with wet feed is that it will increase its odour and likelihood to attract vermin, obviously, this is something you do not want.
Treadle feeders breakdown
Treadle feeders have some springs and also screws, hinges and other moving parts. It is crucial to realise like most things mechanical you by; quality determines lifespan. Depending on the quality of the treadle feeder you buy, these may rust or fatigue in a matter of months or years. This leaves you either replacing parts or shopping for a new feeder.
The Dine-A-Chook difference
Since 2009, we've turned the challenges of wasted feed, persistent rats, and failing feeders into an opportunity, creating the first Dine-A-Chook feeder with the help of my Dad, a retired mechanical engineer.
Dine-A-Chook poultry feeders solve all the issues associated with treadle feeders and more. If you’re considering a new feeder for your backyard pen or coop, Dine-A-Chook is the one you can trust.
With over 50,000 feeders sold worldwide, our design stands out:
- Rodent-Resistant: Keep pests at bay with our secure design.
- No Wasted Feed: Our silo-inspired design ensures every bit of feed is used.
- Weather-Proof: The patented rain hood and gutter keep your feed dry, even in the harshest conditions.
- No Moving Parts: Designed for durability, with nothing to wear out or fail.
- Rust-Free: Made from high-quality, commercial-grade PVC, built to last.
- Australian-Made Quality: Not mass-produced in China—each feeder is crafted with care right here in Australia.
- Lifetime Guarantee: We stand behind our feeders with an unbeatable lifetime warranty.
Learn more about why a Dine-A-Chook Chicken Feeder is the best choice for your flock here.
