New layers

BrentsBeginning

In the Brooder
Nov 18, 2015
16
2
26
Hi all!
We think we have some new chickens laying. They are laying on the ground and not in the nesting boxes. We only have 8 chickens and two boxes. I think we need to put more boxes in. My son Brent doesn't think so. What's everyone's opinion?
 
I think it's unlikely that the number of nesting boxes is your problem as the recommended ratio if 1 nesting box for every 5 hens. More likely, it's either the size, location, orientation, or lack of either easy access, sufficient bedding or adequate darkness (or any combination of these) in your nesting boxes. LocalYokel's suggestion of putting "fake eggs" in the nesting boxes is a good one.
 
I think it's unlikely that the number of nesting boxes is your problem as the recommended ratio if 1 nesting box for every 5 hens. More likely, it's either the size, location, orientation, or lack of either easy access, sufficient bedding or adequate darkness (or any combination of these) in your nesting boxes. LocalYokel's suggestion of putting "fake eggs" in the nesting boxes is a good one.

I was thinking size too.
My bantams lay fine in an Milk crate screwed to the back wall of the tractor.
My full size hens really like this medium large dog crate I throw scrap hay in.
Darkness,privacy can sometimes affect em too.
Maybe curtains would help, silly as it sounds, privacy can sometimes make a difference.
As they come into lay further hopefully their behavior will change.
Praise em if ya see em in the boxes, and their not just horsin around.
Make sure they're not too hot maybe?
Hopefully someone more knowledgeable replies.
 
In the past, i have picked up a hen that is settling to lay and placed it in the nest box - worked for me.

CT
 
Thank you to all. I was thinking that the two nesting boxes were occupied, therefore hence the laying on the ground. I have placed another rack with three more spaces with dummy eggs and its in a darker area. hopefully they will learn. Found another egg on the ground this am and it was broken. :(
 
Thank you to all. I was thinking that the two nesting boxes were occupied, therefore hence the laying on the ground. I have placed another rack with three more spaces with dummy eggs and its in a darker area. hopefully they will learn. Found another egg on the ground this am and it was broken. :(

You're welcome.
 

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