Best Chicken Feeders: Treadle Feeder vs. Gravity Feeder

If you've ever watched chickens eat, you know it's a messy business. They scratch, they peck, they fling, and before you know it, a significant portion of that expensive feed ends up scattered on the ground, mixed with dirt and droppings, or worse, becoming a feast for unwelcome guests like rodents and wild birds. As a homesteader and long-time chicken keeper, I can tell you, the right chicken feeder isn't just a convenience; it's an economic decision that can save you a surprising amount of money and prevent a whole lot of headaches.

The market is flooded with various chicken feeder designs, but two main contenders often emerge in the backyard chicken world: the ingenious treadle feeder and the ubiquitous gravity feeder. Both aim to provide a steady supply of food, but they go about it in fundamentally different ways, impacting everything from how much feed gets wasted to how often you need to refill and your ongoing battle against pests. Having operated a national homesteading supply store for three decades, I've seen countless designs, heard feedback from thousands of chicken keepers, and experienced firsthand the triumphs and frustrations each type presents. Let's embark on a deep dive into the world of chicken feeders, dissecting the nuances of treadle versus gravity systems, and uncovering some fantastic products that will help you feed your flock efficiently, cleanly, and safely.

The Science of Pecking:
Why Chickens Waste So Much Feed

Before we talk about solutions, let's understand the problem. Why are chickens such messy eaters? It's simply their natural foraging behavior. In the wild, chickens scratch and peck to find seeds, insects, and other tidbits. This innate desire to scratch, while beneficial for pest control and soil aeration, becomes a major nuisance when applied to a feeder full of expensive pellets or crumbles. They'll scratch out perfectly good feed onto the ground, where it can get trampled, soiled, or become a beacon for rodents. Add to that the unfortunate reality of wild birds swooping in for a free meal, and you've got a recipe for significant feed loss.

This waste isn't just about losing a few crumbs. Over time, it adds up. A significant portion of your feed budget can literally be going to the birds – the wild birds, that is – or simply ending up as fertilizer on the ground. Beyond the financial implications, wasted feed attracts rodents (rats and mice) and larger predators (like raccoons) who are drawn by the easy food source. These pests not only steal feed but can also spread diseases to your flock and even harm your chickens. This is why the design of your feeder is so incredibly important.

Gravity Feeders:
The Reliable Workhorse

Gravity feeders are arguably the most common and traditional type of chicken feeder. Their design is wonderfully simple: a large hopper or container at the top holds the feed, and as chickens eat from a tray or opening at the bottom, gravity pulls more feed down to replenish the supply. They come in various shapes and sizes, from hanging buckets to ground-level troughs, and are often made from plastic or galvanized metal.

Waste Reduction: This is where gravity feeders can be a bit of a mixed bag. Basic open-trough gravity feeders are notorious for waste. Chickens can easily scratch feed out, and wild birds can land directly in the trough and help themselves. To combat this, many modern gravity feeders incorporate "anti-scratch" designs. These might include narrow feeding ports, baffles, or grates that make it harder for chickens to flick feed out with their beaks or feet. Raised feeders, whether hanging or on legs, also help by preventing chickens from scratching directly into the feed from the ground, and keep the feed cleaner by preventing droppings from falling into it. While better than an open bowl, even well-designed gravity feeders can still experience some level of waste, especially if chickens are particularly enthusiastic eaters.

Capacity: This is often the strongest suit of gravity feeders. Because they are essentially a large container with a dispensing mechanism, they can be designed with very high capacities. You can find gravity feeders that hold anywhere from a few pounds for a small backyard flock to 50 pounds or more for larger operations. This high capacity translates directly into convenience for you, the chicken keeper. You won't need to refill them as often, making them ideal for busy schedules or when you need to be away for a few days. Imagine filling a 25-pound feeder and not worrying about your chickens running out of food for a week or more – that's a real time-saver!

Pest Control: Here's the Achilles' heel for most gravity feeders. Since the feed is continuously accessible (or easily accessible) through an open port or tray, they offer little to no protection against rodents, wild birds, or other small critters. Mice and rats can easily sneak in at night, and sparrows and starlings will become regular visitors during the day. This constant access to food sources can attract a significant pest problem over time, leading to not only feed loss but also potential disease transmission. Unless the gravity feeder is housed inside a truly critter-proof coop or run, pest control will be an ongoing challenge.

Pros of Gravity Feeders:

• Simplicity: Very few moving parts, making them reliable and unlikely to break.

• Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than treadle feeders, especially basic models.

• High Capacity: Can hold a large amount of feed, reducing refilling frequency.

• Easy to Use: Straightforward for chickens to access once installed.

• Versatility: Available in various materials (plastic, metal) and designs (hanging, ground-level, wall-mounted).
  
  
  

Cons of Gravity Feeders:

• Waste Potential: More susceptible to feed waste from scratching and flinging.

• Poor Pest Control: Offers little protection against rodents, wild birds, and other small animals.

• Feed Contamination: Open designs can lead to feed getting soiled by droppings or debris.

• Weather Vulnerability: Unless covered or indoors, feed can get wet and spoil in rain or snow.

Treadle Feeders:
The Smart, Pest-Proof Solution

Treadle feeders are the clever innovators of the chicken feeding world. They feature a platform or "treadle" that the chicken steps onto, using its weight to open a lid or door, granting access to the feed. When the chicken steps off, the lid automatically closes, sealing off the feed. This ingenious design is specifically engineered to address the common problems of waste and pests.

Waste Reduction: This is a major selling point for treadle feeders. Because the feed is only exposed when a chicken is actively standing on the treadle, it drastically reduces spillage from scratching and flinging. When the lid closes, any kicked-out feed falls back into the trough, or at least is contained. This means significantly less wasted feed ending up on the ground, which translates directly into cost savings for you. It's like having a butler who only serves food when asked!

Capacity: Treadle feeders come in a range of capacities, from smaller models suitable for a few backyard hens to larger ones that can hold 20-40 pounds of feed. While they might not always match the absolute largest gravity feeders, their efficiency in reducing waste often means a smaller capacity still lasts longer because less feed is lost. The design needs to be robust enough to handle the weight of the feed and the constant opening and closing, so larger capacities often mean a sturdier (and sometimes heavier) metal construction.

Pest Control: This is the paramount benefit of treadle feeders. When the lid is closed, the feed is completely sealed off from wild birds, mice, rats, and even larger nocturnal predators like raccoons (provided the feeder is well-built with a secure lid). This cuts off their food source, encouraging them to seek sustenance elsewhere. This not only saves you money on feed but also reduces the risk of disease transmission from wild animals to your flock and minimizes the overall pest pressure around your coop. Training chickens to use a treadle feeder is generally straightforward, usually involving propping the lid open for a few days until they get the hang of it, then gradually reducing the prop.

Pros of Treadle Feeders:

• Excellent Waste Reduction: Minimizes spilled feed, saving you money.

• Superior Pest Control: Effectively keeps out rodents, wild birds, and other unwanted critters.

• Feed Stays Clean & Dry: The sealed design protects feed from rain, snow, and droppings.

• Automated: Once chickens are trained, it’s a hands-off feeding system.

• Better Hygiene: Less open exposure reduces contamination risks.
  
  
  

Cons of Treadle Feeders:

• Initial Cost: Generally more expensive upfront than basic gravity feeders.

• Training Required: Chickens need to be trained to use the treadle (though it's usually quick).

• Weight Threshold: Some feeders have a minimum weight requirement to activate, so they might not be suitable for very young chicks or bantams without adjustment.

• Fewer Chickens at Once: Often only allows 1-2 chickens to eat at a time, though this rarely causes issues as chickens take turns.

• Mechanical Parts: More moving parts mean a slightly higher potential for wear and tear, though quality models are built to last.

Making Your Choice:
Treadle or Gravity?

The decision between a treadle and a gravity feeder really boils down to your priorities and circumstances:

• Choose a Treadle Feeder if: Your primary concerns are minimizing feed waste and effectively controlling pests (rodents and wild birds). You're willing to invest a bit more upfront and spend a few days training your chickens. You value a cleaner, more hygienic feeding environment.
  
  

• Choose a Gravity Feeder if: You're on a tighter budget, prioritize very large feed capacity for extended periods between refills, or are willing to accept some feed waste and manage potential pest issues (perhaps by keeping the feeder inside a fully predator-proof run). You might also choose a gravity feeder for very young chicks before they're heavy enough for a treadle.
  
  
  

Many homesteaders find a combination works well: a treadle feeder for their main laying flock to save on feed, and perhaps a smaller gravity feeder for treats or if they have chicks being introduced.

Now, let's explore some real-world products that I've personally seen perform exceptionally well, helping chicken keepers around the country optimize their feeding strategies.

Product Reviews:
My Top Picks for Chicken Feeders

Here are seven specific chicken feeder products that I confidently recommend, ranging from robust treadle options to smart gravity designs, all aimed at solving common feeding challenges.

Clicking any of the following link's may result in a
small commission for our family farm.

Grandpa's Feeders Original (Treadle Feeder)

Price Range: $180 - $250 (depending on capacity).

Description: Grandpa's Feeders are arguably the most iconic and trusted name in treadle feeders. Made from high-quality galvanized steel, these feeders are built to last for decades. The ingenious design requires a chicken (typically 0.5 lbs or more) to step on a treadle, which lifts the lid, granting access to the feed. When the chicken steps off, the lid automatically closes, making it genuinely pest-proof and weather-proof. Available in various capacities, commonly 20 lbs and 40 lbs.

Why I love it: This is the gold standard for a reason. Its durability is unmatched – I've seen these last for 20+ years. The design is incredibly effective at keeping out rats, mice, wild birds, and even larger animals like squirrels. The feed stays dry and clean, dramatically reducing waste. Training chickens is straightforward, and the long-term savings on feed more than justify the initial investment. It’s a true workhorse for any serious chicken keeper.

RentACoop Automatic Metal Treadle Feeder (Treadle Feeder)

Price Range: $130 - $200 (depending on capacity).

Description: RentACoop offers a very popular and well-regarded automatic metal treadle feeder, often seen as a strong competitor to Grandpa's. Made from robust galvanized steel, it features a similar treadle mechanism for access control and is designed to be rainproof. Many models also include a built-in rain shield and a "no-roost" top to deter chickens from perching on top and soiling the feeder. Available in capacities like 25 lbs and 40 lbs.

Why I love it: RentACoop has really focused on user-friendly features. The rain shield is a fantastic addition, and the anti-roost design helps keep the feeder clean. It's a heavy-duty unit that offers excellent waste reduction and pest control, comparable to the Grandpa's feeder but often at a slightly more accessible price point. It's a very solid choice for reliable, long-term use.

Harris Farms Free Range Hanging Poultry Feeder (Gravity Feeder)

Price Range: $15 - $40 (depending on material and capacity).

Description: This is a classic and highly versatile gravity feeder. It's typically made from durable plastic or galvanized steel and designed to be hung from the coop ceiling or a sturdy support. Its hanging design keeps the feed off the ground, reducing contamination from droppings and scratching. It often features a wide opening at the base that allows multiple chickens to eat simultaneously. Available in various sizes, commonly 10 lbs to 30 lbs.

Why I love it: For a simple, reliable gravity feeder, this is a great choice. Hanging it helps immensely with cleanliness and some waste reduction compared to ground-level troughs. It's inexpensive, easy to fill, and provides consistent access to feed. While it won't deter wild birds or rodents, it's an excellent option for use inside a truly predator-proof run or coop, or if you're actively managing pests through other means. It's perfect for a no-fuss, everyday feeding solution.

Little Giant 40 lb. Galvanized Hanging Poultry Feeder (Gravity Feeder)

Price Range: $60 - $90.

Description: The Little Giant hanging feeder is another robust gravity option, made from heavy-gauge galvanized steel. It's designed for durability and a long lifespan. Like other hanging feeders, it keeps feed elevated and relatively clean. Its all-metal construction is resistant to pecking damage and weather. The large capacity makes it suitable for medium to large flocks, reducing the frequency of refills.

Why I love it: This feeder is built like a tank. If you want a hanging gravity feeder that will literally last for decades, this is it. The galvanized steel is incredibly durable and easy to clean. The generous 40-pound capacity is fantastic for busy homesteaders or larger flocks, ensuring your chickens always have food available. While it's still a gravity feeder (so less pest control than a treadle), its rugged construction means it can withstand the elements and the rigors of a busy chicken run.

DIY PVC Pipe Feeder Kit (Gravity Feeder with Anti-Waste Design)

Price Range: $20 - $50 (for a kit, or less if sourcing parts yourself).

Description: Many online retailers and homesteading supply companies now offer kits to build your own PVC pipe feeder, or you can source the parts yourself. These typically consist of several sections of PVC pipe, elbows, and caps, designed to be mounted on the side of a coop or run. The design often creates a "no-spill" or "no-waste" port that chickens can stick their heads into to eat, but can't easily scratch feed out. These are often made from standard schedule 40 PVC.

Why I love it: This is a fantastic DIY-friendly option that offers excellent waste reduction for a gravity feeder. The port design makes it very hard for chickens to fling feed, and the sealed vertical pipe keeps the bulk of the feed dry and safe from pests (though pests can still access the port). It's highly customizable in terms of capacity and can be very cost-effective if you build it yourself. Plus, there's a satisfying sense of accomplishment in creating your own feeder!

Feeder-Drinkers (Often Gravity-Based Combos)

Price Range: $25 - $70 (depending on size and features).

Description: While not a single product, many manufacturers offer integrated feeder-drinker combos, often utilizing gravity-fed designs. These usually consist of a large base for feed and a separate reservoir for water, or nipple drinkers integrated into the feeder unit. They are commonly made from durable plastic and designed to be space-saving and convenient for smaller backyard flocks.

Why I love it: For efficiency and space-saving, especially in smaller coops or runs, these combos are brilliant. They simplify your setup by combining two essential functions into one unit. While the feeding portion is typically a standard gravity tray (with similar waste/pest considerations), the waterer often features nipple drinkers or a very small trough, which is excellent for keeping water clean and preventing chickens from dirtying it. They are generally affordable and easy to clean.

Dine A Chook Poultry Feeder (Gravity Feeder with Unique Anti-Waste Design)

Price Range: $70 - $120 (depending on capacity and whether it's a combo with a waterer).

Description: Dine A Chook feeders, originating from Australia, have gained a global reputation for their unique "no-waste" gravity feeder design. Made from commercial-grade, UV-stabilized PVC, they feature an innovative feed delivery system that prevents chickens from raking out feed. The angled chute and small feeding port make it difficult for chickens to waste food, and the design often includes a rain shield. They are typically wall-mounted or can be free-standing.

Why I love it: This gravity feeder is truly in a class of its own for waste reduction. It addresses the scratching and flinging problem head-on with its ingenious design. The heavy-duty PVC is extremely durable and easy to clean, and the built-in rain shield protects the feed. While it's still accessible to smaller pests if left open, it's a phenomenal option for minimizing feed loss and keeping food clean, and many users report significant savings on feed compared to traditional gravity feeders. It’s a great mid-range option if a treadle isn't feasible but waste is a major concern.

The Heart of a Healthy Flock

Investing in a quality chicken feeder might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of homesteading, but believe me, it's a game-changer. It's about more than just convenience; it's about optimizing your resources, promoting the health of your flock, and keeping your homestead harmonious. Less wasted feed means more money in your pocket, and fewer pests mean a safer, cleaner environment for everyone.

Whether you opt for the intelligent engineering of a treadle feeder or the robust simplicity of a well-designed gravity feeder, prioritize features that tackle waste, offer sufficient capacity for your flock size, and provide a defense against unwanted visitors. Your chickens will thank you with their vibrant health, consistent egg production, and contented clucking, and you'll find yourself enjoying the rewarding world of chicken keeping even more. Happy feeding!