Broiler chickens‘ drinker space and drinker height depend on the type of drinker being used.
Drinker Height
- Day-old chicks (0–7 days): Place the drinker so chicks can easily reach it. The lip of a bell drinker should be at back height.
- From 2 weeks onward: Raise the drinker gradually as birds grow.
- Nipple drinkers: The nipple should be slightly above the birds’ head, so they stretch their necks upward at about a 45° angle when drinking.
- Bell drinkers: The rim should remain at the birds’ back height throughout the growing period.
Quick Reference Chart
| Age | Bell Drinker Height | Nipple Drinker Height |
|---|---|---|
| 0–7 days | Floor level or back height | Eye level |
| 8–21 days | Back height | Slightly above head |
| 22 days to market | Back height (adjust regularly) | Above head (45° neck angle) |
Maintaining the correct drinker height helps:
- Reduce water wastage
- Keep litter dry
- Improve bird comfort
- Reduce disease risk
- Support better growth performance
