1 giant next box?

[meli229]

In my current hen house, regardless of having multiple next boxes to choose from, two hens often shove together in 1 box. I'm in progress of building a new coop, and had a thought on the nesting boxes. Instead of doing 5 small boxes, what if I just do 1 big long box? Has anyone tried this, or do you think the walls between the boxes make them feel better?

Thanks!

 

[ChickensRDinos]

How many birds do you have? The general rule is 1 box for every 4 birds. They need to feel sort of safe and cozy in it so I wouldn't make it too huge.

 

[meli229]

I currently have 8 hens

 

[ChickensRDinos]

I would do two boxes total for 8 hens. I have 2 boxes for 6. They still tend to lay all in one but occasionally I find 1 egg in the other.