Two nest boxes for 11 hens enough?

[MambaJack]

Originally i was going to build 4 boxes in a 2x2 layout inside my coop, accessible from a flat door on the outside.
I am considering changing that to a 2 box side by that sticks out accessible by flipping up the box roof.
Interested in thoughts on what i should go with.

If internal i plan to put the boxes below my 32" x 8' poop shelf that sets under the roost, 3' off of the floor.



1x2 external

• more floor space in the coop
• don't have to bend down as far to get the eggs

2x2 internal

• more space to lay eggs
• better temperature control
• seems easier to seal the door from rain

Any ideas are greatly appreciated

 

[QueenMisha]

I have 50 something laying hens and only two boxes. I can put more in there but they only use the two. You shouldn't have a problem.

 

[chixcoop]

I have 3 boxes for my 9 hens. Not all of them are going to lay an egg a day. I made a plywood nest box for them to lay in. I would go with the waterproof option, 2x2. Is it possible to raise the box for more floor space?

You should be fine. If you notice eggs in the run or coop, you may want to construct another box.

 

[chixcoop]

I have 50 something laying hens and only two boxes. I can put more in there but they only use the two. You shouldn't have a problem.

how is that possible?

 

[QueenMisha]

how is that possible?

They take turns, or pile in two at a time. They are large nesting boxes, my geese can fit in them. Sometimes I find an egg in the corner or middle of the coop if a hen took too long. I've had up to ten nesting boxes in there, but they only ever use 2-3 at a time.

 

[ZORRO3061]

Hi MambaJack, I am not a great builder, this is not what you asked but might be a good idea for you.

If you see my nesting boxes are square plastic buckets filled with hay, hanging from the wooden structure.

In the eventuality that an egg breaks or gets very dirty it’s so easy to take and clean. It doesn’t impregnate like plywood.

 

[MambaJack]

I have 3 boxes for my 9 hens. Not all of them are going to lay an egg a day. I made a plywood nest box for them to lay in. I would go with the waterproof option, 2x2. Is it possible to raise the box for more floor space?

You should be fine. If you notice eggs in the run or coop, you may want to construct another box

If I just do two side by side boxes inside the coop i can still have 18 of floor space below them.

 

[MambaJack]

Hi MambaJack, I am not a great builder, this is not what you asked but might be a good idea for you.

If you see my nesting boxes are square plastic buckets filled with hay, hanging from the wooden structure.

In the eventuality that an egg breaks or gets very dirty it’s so easy to take and clean. It doesn’t impregnate like plywood.

Very cool, where did you get the plastic tubs?

 

[bigt447]

I have 10 hens and very often 3, or even 4 are laying at the same time. Therefore, I recommend 4 boxes.

 

[CluckerCottage]

I have heard of people using the large plastic kitty litter tubs (the ones with handles) and turning them on their sides. Also have seen plastic round pails used as nest boxes.
Currently I'm using plain white dishpans purchased from Wal Mart. We cut a U shape on the front sides of them and sanded them so there'd be no sharp edges.
This allows the girls to get in and out with ease. My girls are considered large (BR's, etc..) and they have no problems.
They fit perfectly into the nesting boxes and we fill them with fresh hay.
Very easy to clean, too!