Cardboard in nesting box

[Ponte]

My last two laying pullets keep making a perfectly round nest without any hay in the center. A few eggs have cracked. Has anybody tried placing cardboard as a nesting box shock absorber ?

 

[cavemanrich]

I just have a thicker portion of hay in my nesting area. I do understand the cardboard factor. The chicken is standing up when laying egg. The drop to solid board can fracture/break shell.
WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

 

[chickitychickity]

I’ve never tried cardboard, but a friend has used rubber mats with fake grass carpet on top.

 

[centrarchid]

Make certain the cardboard fits tight enough for hen to do her scratching pattern without pulling the cardboard up. You could also place a layer of sand or pea gravel to give same cushion effect.

Eggs should be able to fall about 2" without being damaged. Make certain hens getting enough calcium, phosphate and vitamin D.

 

[rosemarythyme]

A folded feed bag also works as a no-cost padding for nest boxes, just make sure to fold it so it fits snuggly in the box, then top with bedding of choice.

 

[Ponte]

Appreciate the great ideas.
Thanks