[Soozie]

We bought our first hens on Friday they are doing well but we are a bit concerned as they don't seem to use their feeder. Its a rodent proof one, we have put a brick on the bit that they stand on so the food is visible. They have stood on the treadle bit, but we have not yet seen them go for the food. Do we need to train them to use it? They free range in the garden so is it that they get enough food from foraging?

All advice really appreciated 

[bantam novice]

Hello Soozie, welcome to the forum and the wacky world of henaholics 

Could you tell us what food you have in your feeder and are you giving them other treats as well?  Did you see what they were eating and the kind of feeder they were used to using at the place you bought them from?

Sometimes hens take a little time to settle down and my instinct would be to wait a bit.  They should start using it eventually.

In the meatime good luck and keep us posted 

[Soozie]

Thank you for the help

The place we got them from were using the feeders with a dome and the tray underneath (cant remember the name). I am not sure what they were eating but we have been giving them grower pellets. we put a few handfuls in the house and on the grass which they ate. so we know they are at least getting something. Is it best we don't do this so they get used to the feeder? They have had some corn today as a treat and some was put by the feeder to tempt them in it worked until they polished off the corn!

I will be patient and keep you all update

Thank you again