Best fill for nesting boxes

[JLoner]

We are finally getting hens again! We had them a few years ago, but predators killed every one of them..before they even laid an egg. We are going to reduce the size of flock and keep them locked in our predator-proof coop. We now have a large dog to patrol the yard, which should keep the foxes out of sight.

To avoid mistakes that I did last time (including free-ranging them) I am making sure this coop is perfect inside and out. Last time I used straw and wood shavings for inside (I gutted the coop every week to avoid dampness and illness) but I just read that construction sand is the best and to be about 4" deep inside.

My question is, what is best for nesting boxes? I would like to avoid wood shavings and straw if possible. Thanks!

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

If you don't want shavings or straw, what about artificial grass?

 

[JLoner]

If you don't want shavings or straw, what about artificial grass?

I would absolutely try it, thanks for the idea! I can hose it off if it gets dirty. Could be perfect

 

[fldiver97]

I use those precut nesting mats, sprinkle some dried herbs on top and spot clean as needed. They are a bit pricey initially but mine last 6-12 months and when they’re too torn up or dirty they go in the compost. Works better than anything else I’ve tried before. However... I have not tried the fake grass or rubber type mats you can clean

 

[aart]

(I gutted the coop every week to avoid dampness and illness)

Why was coop so damp inside?