Station d'alimentation et de gravier Supa

What should I put in this feeder?

This station is ideal for supplements and extras rather than main feed:

• Mixed poultry grit (essential for digestion)
• Oyster shell (calcium for laying hens)
• Flint grit (helps grind food in gizzard)
• Treats like dried mealworms
• Kitchen scraps and vegetables
• Specialized supplements or probiotics

Why offer grit separately from feed?

Many commercial feeds don't include grit. Chickens need grit to grind food in their gizzard (they have no teeth). Offering it separately ensures all birds can access it as needed, especially important for confined flocks without access to natural grit sources.

Why offer oyster shell separately?

Laying hens need extra calcium, but too much calcium harms non-laying birds (chicks, roosters, older hens). Offering oyster shell separately allows laying hens to self-regulate their calcium intake whilst other flock members avoid excess.

How many chickens will this serve?

This station's compact size suits small to medium flocks (4-12 birds) for supplement feeding. For larger flocks, consider using multiple stations or checking levels daily to ensure adequate supply.

Will the roof really prevent contamination?

Yes - the conical shape prevents chickens from perching on top. Flat surfaces invite perching and result in droppings falling into feed below. This simple design feature significantly improves hygiene.

Can I use this as a main feeder?

Not recommended. The open design and modest capacity make it better suited for supplements, grit, and treats rather than daily feed rations. Use alongside a proper feeder (like the 15kg port feeders) for main feed.

Can I use this outdoors?

Yes, the durable plastic withstands outdoor use. However, the open design allows rain to enter, so positioning under shelter keeps contents drier, especially important for feeds that clump when wet.

Comment dois-je le nettoyer ?

Weekly: Empty, rinse, wipe down, and refill (5 minutes)
Monthly: Wash with warm water and mild detergent or disinfectant, rinse thoroughly, air dry (10 minutes)

The smooth plastic construction makes cleaning straightforward.

Will this work for ducks or other poultry?

Yes! Suitable for chickens, ducks, turkeys, game birds, guinea fowl, and other poultry. All ground-feeding poultry need grit for digestion and benefit from elevated feeding stations.

What's the difference between flint grit and oyster shell?

Flint grit (insoluble): Hard stones that remain in the gizzard to grind food. Essential for all chickens.

Oyster shell (soluble): Dissolves to provide calcium for eggshell production. Only needed by laying hens.

Many keepers offer mixed grit (containing both) or use separate stations for each.

Can I mount this on a wall?

This station is designed to sit on the ground or a platform rather than wall-mount. The stable base design works best when placed on level surfaces.

Do I really need a separate grit station?

If your flock free-ranges with access to stones and shells, they may find sufficient grit naturally. However, confined flocks absolutely need supplementary grit for proper digestion. A dedicated station ensures it's always available.

How often should I refill it?

Check weekly. Grit and oyster shell consumption varies based on flock size, diet, and whether hens are actively laying. Some flocks go through oyster shell quickly during peak laying season.