Anyone make nest boxes out of an old large mailbox?

[Flower84]

Hey everyone,
We just replaced our old mailbox. I'm wondering if I could chop it in half and make 2 nestboxes out of it? Would they use it do you think? And what would I use for the front to keep the straw in? Any suggestions or ideas? I hate to waste anything useful and it seems it might be good for that. It's a very large one. Thank you!

 

[chickengeorgeto]

What purpose do you want this nest to perform? Upside down and with litter in it would be the best way for hens to use it. I don't however think much of the idea if you intend to use it as a hatchery. A small plank across the front would help conserve the straw.

 

[Flower84]

I just want it for laying hens, not for hatching. I will try to make something and respond with any results!

 

[lazy gardener]

Don't forget that hens stand up when they lay their eggs. If the interior of the box is not at least 12" W x 12" H and L, IMO, it's too small. Also, solid enclosed metal may trap more summer heat than would be comfortable for the birds.

 

[lazy gardener]

An alternate use for that mail box might be to mount it on a post adjacent to (or in) your garden or coop/run to hold gardening or flock sanitation supplies.

 

[Flower84]

An alternate use for that mail box might be to mount it on a post adjacent to (or in) your garden or coop/run to hold gardening or flock sanitation supplies.

That is a very good point ! It may get hot, I may have to rethink my plan for this old thing!