6 Best Outdoor Grain Bins For Goats That Keep Pests Out

You walk out to the barn and find the feed bag torn open, its contents scattered and fouled by mice. It’s a frustratingly common scene that costs you money and puts your goats’ health at risk. Protecting your feed from pests and weather isn’t just a chore; it’s a critical part of responsible animal husbandry that saves you time, stress, and resources.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Why Galvanized Steel Bins Protect Goat Feed

Galvanized steel is the gold standard for outdoor feed storage for one simple reason: it creates a physical barrier that pests cannot defeat. Mice, rats, and squirrels can chew through wood and plastic with surprising speed, but their teeth are no match for steel. This single material advantage solves the most persistent feed storage problem on a farm.

The galvanization process, which coats the steel in a layer of zinc, provides crucial protection against the elements. A proper bin won’t rust through after a single season of rain and snow, ensuring your investment lasts for years. This durability means your feed stays dry, preventing the growth of mold and mildew that can be toxic to goats.

Of course, the material is only half the battle. A steel bin is only as good as its lid. Look for designs with overlapping edges and a secure locking mechanism. Raccoons are notoriously clever and can unlatch simple clips, so a lid that requires twisting, a pin, or a carabiner is far more effective at keeping your grain safe.

Tarter 1-Ton Galvanized Steel Bin for Longevity

When you move from a few pet goats to a more serious herd, your feed storage needs a major upgrade. The Tarter 1-Ton bin is a piece of permanent farm infrastructure, not just a container. It’s designed for hobby farmers who are buying feed by the half-ton or more, aiming to reduce costs through bulk purchasing.

This bin’s greatest strength is its efficiency. The sloped interior funnels feed down to a slide-gate dispenser at the bottom, allowing you to fill buckets without scooping, spilling, or leaving the lid open. This design minimizes waste and keeps the feed protected from the moment it’s delivered until the moment it goes into the trough. It’s a huge time-saver during daily chores.

The tradeoff is the significant upfront cost and the need for a dedicated, level site, preferably a concrete pad. This isn’t a bin you can move around easily. Think of it as an investment that pays for itself over several years through cheaper feed and zero spoilage. It’s the right choice for someone committed to raising goats for the long haul.

Behrens 20-Gallon Locking Lid Can for Small Herds

For the classic hobby farm with a handful of goats, the Behrens 20-gallon galvanized can is the perfect fit. It’s simple, effective, and has been a mainstay in barns for generations for good reason. Its size is ideal for holding two to three 50-pound bags of feed, which is a manageable amount for a small herd to consume before it goes stale.

The key feature is the locking lid. The offset handle slides through a slot in the lid and is secured by gravity, creating a mechanism that is surprisingly difficult for raccoons and other critters to operate. While not bear-proof, it effectively stops the most common barn pests. The all-steel construction means rodents can’t chew their way in.

However, these cans have a vulnerability: moisture from the ground. Never place them directly on a dirt or concrete floor, as condensation can wick up and spoil the bottom layer of feed. Always place your can on a couple of wood blocks or a small pallet to allow for airflow underneath. This simple step will dramatically extend the life of both the can and the feed inside it.

High Country Plastics FB100 Wall Feeder/Bin Combo

Sometimes the best solution is one that solves two problems at once. The High Country Plastics FB100 is a clever wall-mounted unit that combines a small storage bin with a built-in feeder. This is an excellent option for stall feeding or for small paddocks where you want to keep feed contained and off the ground.

You simply mount the unit to a sturdy wall or post and fill the top storage hopper, which holds about 100 pounds of grain. The feed then gravity-flows into the trough below as the goats eat. This design protects the bulk of the feed from being contaminated by manure or dirt, reducing waste and promoting better herd health.

The obvious tradeoff is the material. It’s made of thick, durable polyethylene, which is far tougher than a cheap storage tote, but it’s still plastic. A highly motivated rat could eventually chew through it, so it’s not the best choice for a barn with a known rodent problem. It shines as a convenient, all-in-one system for a few goats in a clean, well-managed environment.

Sioux Steel 2.2-Ton Bulk Bin for Larger Operations

If your hobby farm is starting to feel more like a small-scale commercial operation, the Sioux Steel bulk bin is the logical next step. With a capacity of 2.2 tons, this bin is for the farmer who gets feed delivered by the truckload, not in bags. This is the point where you achieve maximum cost savings on your feed bill.

These bins are engineered for efficiency and automation. They are built to withstand heavy winds and snow loads and feature a steep cone base for reliable feed flow. Most importantly, they are designed to be integrated with auger systems, which can automate the process of moving feed from the bin to your barn, saving immense physical labor.

This is not a casual purchase. A bin of this size requires a professionally poured concrete pad and significant assembly. It represents a major capital investment and a commitment to a larger scale of farming. For a growing dairy or meat goat operation, however, the long-term savings in both feed costs and labor can make it one of the smartest investments on the farm.

Little Giant Galvanized Steel Can with Locking Lid

Much like the Behrens can, the Little Giant galvanized steel can is a workhorse for small-herd feed storage. It offers the same core benefits: a chew-proof steel body, a weather-resistant design, and a locking lid to deter curious pests. It’s a no-nonsense solution that simply works.

Where it sometimes differs is in the small details of the design. The handle and locking mechanism might be slightly different, and the gauge of the steel can vary. It’s always a good idea to handle one in person at the feed store if you can. Check for a snug-fitting lid and a handle that feels robust. A flimsy handle is often the first point of failure.

Ultimately, the choice between a Little Giant and a Behrens often comes down to local availability and price. The underlying principle is the same: a well-made, 20 to 30-gallon galvanized steel can with a secure lid is the most reliable and cost-effective way to store feed for a small number of goats. Don’t overthink it; just get the one that feels the most solid.

Rubbermaid 32-Gallon Animal-Resistant Trash Can

While not a traditional feed bin, the Rubbermaid animal-resistant trash can is a surprisingly effective and affordable option, particularly if your primary pests are raccoons, not rodents. These cans are specifically engineered with a twist-lock lid that is extremely difficult for animals without opposable thumbs to open.

The heavy-duty plastic construction is much thicker and more durable than a standard trash can or a simple storage tote. While a rat could theoretically chew through it over time, it presents a much tougher challenge than thinner plastics. For outdoor storage where raccoons are the main threat, this can often outperform a metal can with a simpler latch.

This is a perfect example of choosing the right tool for the specific problem. If you have a severe, established rodent infestation, stick with steel. But if your goal is to stop clever raccoons and possums from raiding your feed supply overnight, this rugged, purpose-built plastic can is an excellent and often overlooked solution.

Choosing the Right Bin Size for Your Goat Herd

Buying the right-sized bin is just as important as choosing the right material. A bin that is too large is a waste of money and can lead to stale, unpalatable feed. A bin that is too small creates extra work with constant trips to the feed store. The goal is to store enough feed for 1-2 months at a time.

Use your herd’s consumption rate as your guide. A common mistake is buying a huge bin for two miniature goats, only to have the feed sit for six months and lose its nutritional value. Freshness matters.

Here’s a simple framework to get you started:

• 1-4 Goats: A single 20-30 gallon can is ideal. This comfortably holds 100-150 lbs of feed, which is a perfect amount for a small group.
• 5-10 Goats: You’re in a transitional phase. Two or three 30-gallon cans can work well, or you can upgrade to a small, 0.5 to 1-ton bulk bin if you have the space and want to start buying in bulk.
• 10+ Goats: At this scale, a 1-ton or larger bulk bin becomes a necessity. The cost savings on bulk feed and the time saved from fewer trips will quickly justify the investment.

Think of your feed bin as part of your overall management system. Matching its capacity to your herd’s needs ensures your goats get fresh, safe feed and you spend your time and money wisely.

Ultimately, the best outdoor grain bin is the one that reliably separates your expensive feed from hungry pests and harsh weather. Whether it’s a simple galvanized can or a towering steel silo, the right choice protects your investment, safeguards your animals’ health, and makes your daily chores just a little bit easier. A good bin doesn’t cost money; it saves it.