2 nest boxes enough for 6 chickens?

[Jodiemama]

I plan on getting six chicks in the spring.
I will be working on coop and run this fall.

Would 2 boxes be enough for 6 ladies?
I want to build them so they have access from the outside.

In the planning stage now.
Thanks

 

[Judy]

Plenty. They'll probably only use one, anyway. You could also make one that is a bit wider, like 18".

 

[SunAngel]

Should be enough unless most of them go broody at the same time.

I had 5 nesting boxes for 15 layers, 6 went broody and hogged all the nesting boxes.

 

[ray2310]

We have 6 boxes for 20 chickens. They mostly use just three in a days time.

 

[thebroodybunch]

I've heard that 1 box for every 6 chickens is the average. I have 7 chickens and 2 boxes. I think you should do fine with two boxes.

 

[Jodiemama]

Ok. Thanks!

 

[Marlinchaser]

Quote:
Yes 2 would be enough.

Did you mean so YOU have access to the boxes from outside, so you dont have to go into the coop to gather eggs.

 

[Marlinchaser]

oh yeah almost forgot

 

[Judy]

Quote:
Do yours use them both? The usual formula here is one for four hens -- but everyone seems to find they have favorite boxes and don't use them all. I would not give 6 hens more than one; IME it's just wasted space.