Are nesting boxes necessary?

[NicInNC]

We don't have individual nesting boxes. Just the enclosed coop filled with shavings and a bar for them to roost on. Are separate nesting boxes necessary?

 

[Snakeoil]

If you don't mind them laying willey Nilley you don't have to have them, but they sure want them.

 

[Master S.M.C]

NO they are not, but if your hens feel like laying and there are no boxes that are comfy to do so. They will lay anywhere they please

 

[ChickenToes]

If the hens don't have nesting boxes they will lay eggs on the floor of the coop or outside, and then they get wet and covered with poo, and then they get stepped on and kicked around...

So yes, nesting boxes are a must!

 

[Indiana hens]

Ever hunt easter eggs? Everyday?

 

[NicInNC]

Quote:

Ok. I'll be sure to add some nesting boxes! How many do I need with 4 chickens?

BTW...our banties are 8 months old now. Any idea when they may start to lay? It's still really cold here.

 

[NancyDz]

I have one with 6 chickens and they all use it. When I first put it in there , they all laid in a different spot in the straw... made their own nest, then they all used their nest. Then it
got rainy and the nest box stayed nicer than the straw on the floor and they started using that. I would say only one for 4 hens. My 6 do fine with it.


Nancy

 

[chickensioux]

1 box per 3 hens is what I have....

 

[4biddies]

I have four hens that share a communal nest box. They don't mind sharing. It's wider than the standard size, but the same depth...as long as it feels secure they'll use it. They just prefer a darker quiet spot that's kind of seperate from the rest.

 

[denimangle]

I Have 2 for 5 but they only use 1
Cheryl