DIY Swinging Treat Holder for Chickens (On the Cheap!)

I live in an area where I can't just let my chickens roam free, so boredom can become a real issue. Along with a large enclosure, I try my best to come up with little things here and there to help keep the flock entertained. Today I thought I would share with you one of the best busy bird options that we have for our flock... A swinging treat holder. 

This super easy and inexpensive accessory can be put together, and hung in your run, in a matter of minutes! It's made from a hanging fruit or vegetable basket (I got mine at Dollar Tree) and a disposable pie pan! So treat yourself with a pie, and then make your chickens happy too. Just place the pie pan inside the basket and bend the edges out a little, to get them to fit between the wires. This will help the pie pan to slide down closer to the bottom of the basket, giving the chickens more room to get their heads in there to reach all of the goodies. I also find it helpful to have two fitted pie pans - one for me to fill, while they're emptying the other. 

This swinging treat holder is also very versatile. You can put any small treats or grains that you want in the pie pan (chopped carrots are pictured). It even works with the wet treats, like yogurt. Or, remove the pan, and delight your flock with larger items, such as romaine lettuce, squash halves, whole tomatoes, etc. Depending on what you put in it, the swinging action can keep them entertained for hours. Oh, and as an added bonus... the flock block that I make here at the house, fits in it perfectly! (see video) 

Obviously, It's really hard to take a decent picture with all of the motion, so
here's a short video of the treat holder in action...

As you can see, the chickens really love this little contraption. And I love the fact that they are entertained and not trying to get into any {more} trouble. 

PS - During Summer months, It works really well to hold their ice block cakes too. 

See you next time...

Related posts that might interest you:

 DIY (better than) Flock Block 

 Chicken CRACK - They go CRAZY for it! 

 Growing Grass Inside for Small Flock Winter Treat Feeding