As cold weather sets in across much of the U.S., the leaves are falling, days are shorter, and the nights are longer and colder. The National Weather Service is predicting a colder than normal winter for the upper portion of the country. Based in northern Iowa, the long winter months can be a challenge for our flock at the Hatchery. Below are just a few of our favorite winter tools and accessories that our family uses in our own coops at home — and at the hatchery — to help our birds weather the cold months.
Heated Waterers for Chickens and Poultry
Water is necessary for chickens to regulate body temperature, and for digestion and egg production. During winter months, it is critical to keep your flock’s water clean and flowing. We recommend using a heated poultry waterer to ensure your chickens have access to fresh water even when temps dip below freezing.
Blue Heated Poultry Nipple Waterer | Winter Equipment for Chickens
This 3-gallon blue Heated Poultry Nipple Waterer is ideal for all seasons, but it is a must-have for any chicken keeper in colder climates. During the winter it keeps your flock’s water clean, unfrozen, and flowing in temperatures as low as -20°F.
Heated Poultry Waterer | Winter Equipment for Chickens
This generously-sized Heated Poultry Waterer which holds up to 3 gallons of water to keep your chickens hydrated and prevents their water source from freezing when the temperatures drop.
Winter Accessories for Chickens and Poultry
These winter accessories are great options to help prevent your chicken’s water from freezing during the cold winter months.
Electric Water De-Icer | Winter Equipment for Chickens
Keep up to 50 gallons of water from freezing, even below zero degrees! Safe for plastic or metal troughs, this water de-icer is ideal for larger flocks or livestock tanks.
No Freeze Heated Base | Winter Equipment for Chickens
Keep any poultry waterer or fount from freezing with this electric heated base. Internal thermostat keeps the water flowing while preventing overheating. Recommended use in an indoor / sheltered area for optimal results.
Range Feeders for Winter | Increased Nutrition for Cold Weather
Did you know a chicken’s feed consumption increases in the colder months? It takes a lot of energy to stay warm during the winter. In fact, chickens need at least ten percent more calories during the winter than they do in the summer. Range feeders mean less trips out in the cold for you, while ensuring your flock has the feed it needs to weather the cold.
Extreme Range Feeder | Weather-Proof Range Feeders
These durable feeders are made of marine-grade plastic and have weathered many harsh Iowa winters at our own family’s homestead. These tough chicken feeders are weather-resistant and hold an impressive 50 pounds of feed.
Thermo Poultry Accessories for Winter | Preventing Frostbite in Your Flock
Did you know a chicken’s feed consumption increases in the colder months? It takes a lot of energy to stay warm during the winter. In fact, chickens need at least ten percent more calories during the winter than they do in the summer. Range feeders mean less trips out in the cold for you, while ensuring your flock has the feed it needs to weather the cold.
Thermo-Chicken Heated Perch | Preventing Frostbite
While chickens may have their own down ‘coat’ to keep them warm, they can easily get frostbite on their feet. Protect your chickens from frostbite while providing an essential coop element with a heated perch.