The Spitha Automatic Metal Chicken Feeder is a treadle-style, pedal-operated feeder made from galvanized steel, designed to keep feed dry, protected from pests, and accessible only to your birds. It suits backyard flocks and small-scale poultry operations where rodent pressure and feed waste are ongoing concerns.
The feeder includes a progressive training system to acclimate birds to the pedal mechanism before switching to fully automatic operation. Note that actual feed capacity reported by buyers runs closer to 25 to 30 pounds rather than the listed 40-pound figure.
Specifications
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Material: Galvanized stainless steel
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Listed Capacity: 40 lbs (actual reported capacity closer to 25 to 30 lbs)
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Operation: Treadle pedal, chicken-activated lid
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Lid Design: Airtight, moisture-resistant
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Training System: Progressive, three-stage (full access, partial, automatic)
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Simultaneous Feeding: Up to 4 birds at one time
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Pest Protection: Rodent-blocking design
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Use Environment: Outdoor rated
Who This Feeder Works For and When It Makes Sense
If you manage a backyard flock without daily oversight, whether because of travel, a demanding schedule, or simply wanting to cut daily chore time, a treadle feeder like this one addresses the core problems directly.
The pedal-activated lid means feed is only accessible when a bird steps on the platform, which effectively shuts out sparrows, mice, and rats that would otherwise clean out an open feeder overnight. The three-stage training system means you do not need to throw your birds into the deep end.
You start with the lid propped fully open, move to partial restriction, and eventually let the mechanism work on its own once your flock is comfortable. The galvanized steel construction handles outdoor exposure without the deterioration you would see with plastic alternatives over a full season of weather.
What to Expect from the Spitha Automatic Metal Chicken Feeder in Real Use
The treadle pedal is sensitive enough for a single bird to operate without difficulty, and the higher feeder walls encourage birds to keep their weight on the pedal while eating, which is a functional design detail rather than an accident.
Training time has been short for most flocks, with some buyers reporting their hens adapted within a few days using the included progressive system. The training instructions are noted as clear and detailed, which matters when you are working with birds that have never encountered a pedal mechanism before.
Feed stays dry and uncontaminated through weather exposure, and the airtight lid design holds up in wet conditions. The rodent exclusion works as intended, which is a meaningful change for operations that were previously losing significant feed to pests.
On capacity, the listed 40-pound figure appears optimistic. Real-world fill levels land between 25 and 30 pounds depending on feed type. Assembly is straightforward enough that it does not require tools or significant mechanical ability. Buyers who travel for extended periods have found the large capacity and reliable operation useful for leaving their flock unattended for several days at a time.
Real-world performance notes sourced in part from verified Amazon customer purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to train chickens to use the treadle pedal?
The feeder uses a three-stage training process. In the first stage, the lid is propped fully open so birds eat freely and get comfortable with the feeder structure itself. The second stage introduces partial lid restriction so birds begin to associate the pedal with food access.
By the third stage, the mechanism operates automatically and birds step on the pedal to open the lid on their own. Most flocks work through this process within a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the individual birds and how consistently the training stages are applied.
Can this feeder handle a flock larger than four birds?
The feeder accommodates up to four birds eating simultaneously based on the platform and trough dimensions. For larger flocks, you would need multiple units or to accept that birds will cycle through in shifts.
Some buyers managing larger flocks have purchased two feeders to ensure all birds have consistent access, particularly if they are away from the property for extended periods and cannot monitor feeding competition.
Is the Spitha feeder fully weatherproof for year-round outdoor use?
The galvanized steel construction and airtight lid are designed for outdoor exposure and have held up in wet and variable weather conditions. The lid seals against moisture, keeping feed dry even in rain.
Galvanized steel resists rust better than standard steel or plastic in humid environments, making it a reasonable choice for year-round outdoor placement. As with any outdoor equipment, positioning it in a covered or partially sheltered area will extend its service life and further protect the feed inside.
