Feeding your chickens properly is one of the most important tasks in backyard poultry keeping.
But store-bought feeders can be expensive, wasteful, and often don’t fit well with your setup or your flock’s needs. That’s why many chicken keepers turn to homemade feeder solutions.
DIY chicken feeders can save money, reduce waste, keep pests out, and give you more control over how your flock eats.
Whether you're raising a few chickens in a small coop or managing a larger flock, there’s a homemade feeder design that can work for you.
Now, let's take a look at the 10 practical and tested DIY chicken feeder ideas – ranging from simple bucket setups to more advanced treadle and gravity-fed designs!
Things to Consider Before Making Your Own Chicken Feeder
Before you start building a DIY chicken feeder, take a moment to assess what will actually work best for your flock and setup.
Not all feeders suit all coops or flocks, so it's important to match the design to your specific needs.
Flock Size
The number of chickens you keep directly affects how much feed is needed and how often the feeder must be refilled.
A small flock might be fine with a simple bucket feeder, while a larger flock may need a high-capacity or automated feeder to keep up with demand.
Pest Problems
Rodents, wild birds, and even raccoons can be drawn to open feeders.
If you’ve had issues with pests in the past, look for a feeder design that has protective features (such as treadle mechanisms, lockable lids, or peck-activated systems) to keep unwanted visitors out.
Weather Exposure
If your feeder will be outdoors or in an open coop, make sure the design protects feed from rain and moisture.
Covered openings, angled surfaces, or enclosed systems help prevent soggy, spoiled feed.
Available Space
Some feeders take up very little room, while others need space for access and movement.
A slim wooden feeder or wall-mounted design might be better for tight coops, while larger trash-can feeders suit roomier setups.
Refilling Frequency
If you don’t want to refill the feeder every day, consider designs that hold a larger amount of feed.
High-capacity or gravity-fed feeders reduce the need for constant checking and allow for short trips away from home.
Material Availability
Using what you already have (like buckets, trash cans, or scrap wood) can cut costs and simplify the process.
Choose a design based on what materials are on hand or easy to source locally.
Skill and Tool Requirements
Some feeders require only basic tools and assembly, while others – like treadle or automated feeders – may need measuring, cutting, and mechanical understanding.
Pick a design that matches your comfort level with DIY work.
Top 10 DIY Chicken Feeder Ideas
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to feeding chickens. Your ideal feeder depends on your coop size, your flock's habits, your local climate, and your own preferences.
Below are 10 practical DIY chicken feeder ideas, each offering unique advantages – from saving space to keeping pests out.
1. Do It Yourself Chicken Feeder (Bucket and Lids)
This is one of the most straightforward and affordable feeders you can make. It uses a plastic bucket and two lids to create a gravity-fed system that rivals store-bought options costing around $30.
The bucket holds the feed, and the lids are positioned at the bottom to act as trays while allowing a steady flow of feed to drop down as chickens eat. (If you’re also mixing your own feed, check out these homemade chicken feed recipes to pair with your DIY feeder.)
A common variation of this setup includes a 5-gallon bucket fitted with a pair of 90-degree PVC elbows near the bottom.
These elbows act as access points where chickens can peck in and eat, while preventing them from scattering feed.
Aluminum rivets help secure the pieces in place. This version is also easy to carry and reposition as needed.
Pros:
- Low cost and easy to assemble
- Portable and weather-resistant
- Keeps feed fairly contained to reduce mess
Best For: Small to medium flocks, beginner DIYers, and those with basic tools and materials on hand.
2. Homemade Wood Trough Chicken Feeder
This classic feeder design is simple, sturdy, and easy to make using scrap wood you probably already have. It works like a long, open tray where chickens can feed comfortably side by side.
You can build it in any length, depending on your flock size, and add short dividers or a rotating bar on top to prevent chickens from standing or scratching inside the trough.
It’s ideal for feeding grain mixes, fermented feed, or kitchen scraps. Plus, it looks right at home in a rustic or traditional-style coop.
Pros:
- Built from inexpensive or repurposed wood
- Easy to clean and repair
- Great for group feeding
Best For: Medium to large flocks, or anyone who prefers a traditional, hands-on feeding setup.
3. Homemade Wood Chicken Feeder
This feeder is a good option for anyone who wants a larger feed capacity without constantly refilling.
Built from wood, this design can hold up to 2,580 cubic inches of feed, making it suitable for medium to large flocks or for people who want a lower-maintenance setup.
One of the most praised features of this feeder is its narrow, vertical profile, which allows it to fit neatly inside a coop without taking up too much floor space.
The design is typically gravity-fed, with an angled bottom to guide feed toward the opening. Clear front panels can also be added to monitor feed levels at a glance.
If you’re handy with basic carpentry tools, this design is easy to build using plywood and screws. The structure is durable, and you can customize the size to fit your flock’s needs.
Pros:
- High capacity for fewer refills
- Slim design fits well in tight coops
- Durable and long-lasting if kept dry
Best For: Keepers who want a permanent indoor feeder that holds a large amount of feed with minimal refilling.
4. Multi-Compartment Chicken Feeder
This feeder is perfect if you like offering a mix of feed types or supplements.
Instead of one large container, it’s built with several small compartments or sections – each holding something different, like layer pellets, oyster shell, or grit.
You can build it from wood, divided buckets, or repurposed plastic containers arranged side by side. It helps your chickens get balanced nutrition without mixing everything together.
Plus, it keeps the coop neater and lets you monitor how much of each feed type your flock is eating. (If you’re prepping your coop for the cold months, you might also want to check out our best heated chicken waterers for winter to make your setup more weather-ready.)
Pros:
- Encourages balanced feeding habits
- Neat and organized layout
- Great for small or mixed flocks
Best For: Flocks that need different feed types or supplements, especially smaller breeds like Bantams.
5. Trash Can Feeder
This feeder idea turns an ordinary trash can into a high-capacity, weather-resistant feeder that’s especially useful for larger flocks or outdoor use.
It’s a great example of repurposing what you already have into something functional and long-lasting.
There are two common versions:
- The basic model holds up to 20 pounds of feed. You simply cut openings at the bottom of the can and attach shallow trays or use the floor as the feeding surface.
- The larger version, often called a Garbage Can Chicken Feeder, can hold up to 150 pounds of feed. It uses PVC pipe elbows inserted near the bottom as feeding ports. A locking lid protects the feed from rain and pests, while the PVC holes can be plugged at night to keep rodents out.
This feeder works best with metal or heavy-duty plastic cans and should be elevated slightly to prevent moisture from seeping in from the ground.
Pros:
- Holds a large amount of feed
- Good protection from pests and weather
- Minimal daily maintenance
Best For: Large flocks, outdoor feeding areas, and those needing a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution.
6. Feeder Made From Metal Air Duct and Flower Pot
This feeder combines two simple components (a metal air duct and a flower pot) to create a smart, upright system that’s easy to fill and maintain.
The biggest advantage of this design is accessibility: you pour the feed in from the top without having to bend over or step into the pen, making it ideal for quick refills.
The structure typically involves a 7-inch round metal duct mounted vertically, with the top section placed outside the coop or run.
The bottom end leads into a container or tray inside the enclosure, where chickens access the feed. The flower pot often serves as a funnel or lid, helping direct feed into the duct and keeping the top covered.
This design is especially useful in tight or covered setups where walking inside the coop is inconvenient. It also helps reduce spillage, since the narrow drop zone keeps feed in one place.
Pros:
- Easy top-fill design – no need to enter the coop
- Keeps feed dry and contained
- Can be built with scrap materials
Best For: Coop setups where access is limited, or for keepers who want a low-effort way to refill feed from outside.
7. PVC Pipe Chicken Feeder
This feeder is a backyard classic for a reason. Made from PVC pipes and elbows, it’s clean-looking, durable, and can be customized to fit almost any coop size.
The concept is simple: a vertical PVC pipe serves as the feed holder, and a 90-degree elbow at the bottom creates a feeding port. As chickens eat, gravity refills the opening automatically.
You can mount it on a wall, fence, or even outside the coop with the feeding end poking through the wire mesh. The top stays sealed with a cap to keep the feed dry and pest-free.
It’s a great low-maintenance option for busy keepers who want to reduce mess and daily refills.
Pros:
- Simple to build and clean
- Keeps feed off the ground and dry
- Great for saving space
Best For: Small to medium flocks, tight coop spaces, and chicken keepers who want a tidy, low-effort feeding setup.
Pros:
- Prevents feed waste through controlled dispensing
- Useful for scheduled feeding routines
- Ideal for flocks with specific feeding needs
Best For: Keepers looking to limit feed waste, automate feeding times, or replicate commercial feeder functionality at home.
8. Hanging Chicken Feeder (Bucket or Tub Design)
If you want to minimize waste and keep feed cleaner, hanging feeders are a solid choice.
This design suspends a container just above the ground so chickens can reach it comfortably, but they can’t scratch bedding into it.
You can use a bucket, tub, or even a large plastic bowl with holes drilled around the sides for feeding access. Attach it to a rope or chain so you can adjust the height as needed.
Because it stays off the ground, it’s easier to keep dry and sanitary – perfect for coops prone to dampness or clutter.
Pros:
- Keeps feed clean and off the ground
- Adjustable height for any flock size
- Simple design using common materials
Best For: Small coops, wet climates, and flocks that tend to scatter feed.
9. Jumbo Feeder
Built for flock owners who don’t want to refill feed every few days, the jumbo feeder follows a “set it and forget it” approach.
It’s a large-capacity system that holds a significant amount of feed – ideal for bigger flocks or for people who prefer to stock up less frequently.
What makes this design stand out is not just its size but its mobility. Many jumbo feeders are built on a small base with handles or wheels, allowing you to move it for cleaning or repositioning as needed.
Materials often include large barrels, totes, or trash bins, combined with PVC piping or feeding trays at the bottom.
Because of its size, this feeder is best used outdoors or in spacious coops. It may take up more room, but the time saved on maintenance makes it worthwhile.
Pros:
- High-capacity – great for large flocks
- Requires fewer refills
- Can be moved around for convenience
Best For: Large flocks, people who prefer less daily upkeep, and setups with plenty of space.]
10. DIY Rain-Proof Outdoor Feeder
This feeder is built for open-air coops or free-range setups where feed is exposed to the elements.
It’s designed with a covered or hooded top that prevents rain from soaking the feed while still allowing easy access for your chickens.
You can make it from PVC, wood, or even a repurposed plastic storage box.
The key is having an overhanging roof or angled lid to direct rainwater away from the feeding area. Some keepers add small drainage holes at the bottom just in case moisture sneaks in.
This design is especially practical during the rainy season – you won’t have to rush outside to cover the feed every time the weather changes.
Pros:
- Keeps feed dry and fresh
- Works well in outdoor setups
- Low-maintenance and easy to refill
Best For: Outdoor or free-range flocks, and chicken keepers in rainy or humid climates.
Which Type of Feeder Fits Your Flock Best?
With so many clever DIY options, the right feeder really depends on your flock size, coop setup, and how hands-on you want to be.
Some feeders are made for space-saving, some to stop waste, and others for high capacity or all-weather use.
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide what works best for your chickens:
If you want to reduce feed waste:
- PVC Pipe Chicken Feeder – Keeps feed contained and clean with gravity-fed dispensing.
- Hanging Chicken Feeder – Suspends feed above ground to stop scratching and scattering.
- Do It Yourself Chicken Feeder (Bucket and Lids) – Gravity-fed and tidy, great for beginners.
If you’re dealing with pests like rats or wild birds:
- Trash Can Feeder – Secure lid and PVC feeding ports help block out unwanted visitors.
- DIY Rain-Proof Outdoor Feeder – Keeps feed dry and protected, even in bad weather.
- PVC Pipe Chicken Feeder – Closed design keeps pests from accessing open feed.
If you need to save space:
- Homemade Wood Chicken Feeder – Vertical design fits neatly in smaller coops.
- PVC Pipe Chicken Feeder – Wall-mounted or fence-mounted for tight areas.
- Feeder Made From Metal Air Duct and Flower Pot – Slim, upright setup with easy top-fill access.
If you’re feeding a large flock or want fewer refills:
- Jumbo Feeder – High-capacity design perfect for big flocks or long intervals between refills.
- Trash Can Feeder (150 lb version) – Handles large volumes and stays protected outdoors.
- Homemade Wood Chicken Feeder – Large capacity with minimal maintenance.
If you want to offer multiple feed types (like grit, oyster shell, or supplements):
- Multi-Compartment Chicken Feeder – Built with separate sections to organize different materials.
- Homemade Wood Trough Chicken Feeder – Spacious and ideal for mixed feed or fermented grains.
Choosing the right feeder depends on your coop’s space, your flock’s size, and your daily routine.
Start with what matters most to you – whether that’s cutting down on waste, keeping pests out, or refilling less often – and build a setup that keeps feeding easy, efficient, and stress-free.
7 Pro-Tips for Building a Successful DIY Chicken Feeder
Even the best feeder design can fall short if it’s poorly built or not suited to your coop.
Before starting your project, keep these practical tips in mind to make sure your homemade feeder works well, lasts long, and keeps your flock healthy.
1. Use Weather-Resistant Materials
If your feeder will be outdoors or in a drafty coop, make sure you use materials that can withstand moisture and temperature changes.
Treated wood, plastic, and galvanized metal are all good options. Avoid materials that absorb water or degrade quickly.
2. Keep Feed Off the Ground
Elevate your feeder slightly to prevent moisture and pests from getting in. This also keeps the feeding area cleaner by limiting dirt and bedding from mixing with the feed.
3. Match the Feeder Height to Your Chickens
Place the feeding opening at about chest height for your chickens.
This helps reduce spillage and makes it easier for them to eat comfortably. For mixed flocks, consider adjustable stands or multiple feeding ports at different heights.
4. Smooth All Edges and Openings
Chickens can injure themselves on sharp or rough edges. Sand down wood cuts and file any sharp plastic or metal parts to prevent injuries.
5. Test With a Small Amount of Feed First
Before filling your feeder completely, test it with a small amount to make sure it works as expected.
Check how the feed flows, if there’s any spillage, and whether your chickens use it without confusion.
6. Secure the Feeder to Prevent Tipping
If the feeder is lightweight or placed on the ground, make sure it’s secured so chickens can’t knock it over while feeding.
Use brackets, hooks, or weight at the base depending on your setup.
7. Monitor Usage for the First Few Days
Observe your flock to see how they respond. If they avoid the feeder or waste feed, minor adjustments might be needed.
This is especially important for treadle or peck-activated feeders, which may require a short training period.
A good DIY feeder should save time, reduce waste, and fit smoothly into your daily routine. Taking the time to build it right makes all the difference.
Start Building the Feeder That Fits Your Flock
Making homemade chicken feeders is all about creating a setup that fits your chickens’ needs and works well in your coop.
Whether you need to protect feed from pests, free up floor space, or cut down on daily chores, there’s a DIY feeder design that can get the job done.
Choose the one that fits your needs best, gather your materials, and start building. The right feeder will make daily care easier and help you raise healthier, more efficient birds.
If you’re raising fluffy favorites like Silkies, you can also check out our complete guide on how to raise Silkie chickens for more breed-specific care tips.
Got questions or want to share your own feeder setup? Comment down below – we’d love to hear from you.
FAQs
How can I train my chickens to use a treadle or peck-assisted feeder?
Training usually takes a few days. Start by keeping the lid open or the target exposed so chickens can access the feed easily. Gradually return the mechanism to its normal position. Chickens will learn through repetition, especially if feed is only available from the new feeder.
What’s the best way to clean a DIY feeder?
Use warm water and a mild, non-toxic soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that might leave residue in the feeder. Clean it thoroughly every few weeks or sooner if feed gets wet or spoiled. Dry completely before refilling.
Can I use a DIY feeder for fermented feed or wet mash?
Most of the feeders listed are designed for dry feed only. Fermented feed or wet mash needs to be served in open trays or bowls and cleaned after each feeding to avoid mold. Use a separate system for wet feeding.
How do I keep feed dry in an outdoor feeder during heavy rain?
Use feeders with covered openings, sealed lids, and raised bases. Position them under shelter or attach a simple overhang or hood to keep rain off the access points. Make sure drainage is built into the design if water does get in.
Is it safe to use recycled containers or wood for feeders?
Yes, as long as they’re clean and free from chemicals, mold, or sharp edges. Avoid wood that’s been treated with toxic preservatives and containers that previously held non-food-safe substances.