The Trap Nesting Thread

[Leela NH]

Great thread! I'm interested in trap nesting for a variety of reasons. I breed Speckled Sussex to the SOP. As a new breeder I want to identify an individuals production. I also would like to be able to keep a trio or more in one pen and know exactly which egg belongs to each hen so I can essentially pair mate without as much stress on the hens.

As with any pure bred breeding program, fertility, production and vigor can be effected by linebreeding. I want to really focus on not only having great exhibition birds, but better production and fertility than previous generations. Selecting for these traits is really important to me. Having beautiful birds is a great goal, but I want them to produce as well!

Any tips for implementing trap nesting is appreciated. I am thinking of installing several into my main coop, then making individual nests for installation into my portable coops for breeding season. I wish there were individual trap nests on the market. I can only find the 10 hole from Strombergs.

Thanks!

Leela
Kindred Hill Farm, NH

 

[losttexan]

I would love to start a trap nesting program. My major concern is the fact each bird is trapped until I manually release her. I worry being trapped over and over in the box for a time until I get to them will have a negative effect on their willingness to use the nest for laying. Has anyone had problems with their hens shying away from the nesting boxes, or starting to lay outside the boxes to avoid being trapped?