Farmight Chick Feeder Dual-Port, 5 LB

We know that getting your flock accustomed to a new feeder can take some time. A simple trick that has helped many flock keepers, including some of our own team members, is to make the ports more appealing. Try adding a touch of cream cheese or jelly to the edge of the port and gently guiding their beaks to it. Sprinkling a bit of their feed on top can also spark their interest. Usually, once one catches on, the rest will quickly follow!

We understand that transitioning to a new feeder can be a bit challenging for your little ones. A helpful trick that has worked for many flock keepers—including several MPC employees—is to make the ports more enticing. Try smearing a bit of cream cheese or jelly on the lip of the port and gently dip their beaks into the treat. You can also sprinkle a little of their feed on top to further pique their curiosity. Often, it only takes one to catch on before the rest eagerly follow!

We are sorry to hear your little ones seem to not be very interested in this great feeder but perhaps a bit of time and continued encouragement - to include perhaps a bit of bribing - will help. We have a couple of suggestions which you may have already tried but we will share here for all of our fellow flock keepers as well. To encourage chicks to use Farmight feeder ports, start by only allowing access to the smaller port designed for chicks; place the feeder at a comfortable height; scatter a small amount of feed around the feeder opening to attract them, and ensure the feeder is filled with fresh feed and is easily accessible; if necessary, temporarily block off the larger ports to prevent chicks from getting stuck or overwhelmed. When all else fails, we have had a few Flock Care Specialists enjoy success while introducing new feeders and waterers by bribing the little ones with a sweeter treat: put a small dab of cream cheese or yogurt on the end of the port and then place the chick in front of it, dipping their beak into the yummy treat! Once they seem comfortable with the port and the treat, sprinkle some of the feed in the same spot. This is usually works well by using just one chick - once she gets the hang of it and is spotted by the others enjoying some delicious feed, they will scamper to join her! We hope this helps but please if you continue to have trouble, reach out to us and we will be happy to help!