Cedar and Nesting box questions

[The Coastal Chicks]

ok so I found an old thread that said cedar is bad for chickens.... I had not read about this while researching my coop design.... and just bought a cedar dog house that I am retro fitting for the coop
what are the real concerns.. the are free range during the day and will have a run connected... they are 6 weeks old EE/Ameracuna's..
also what is the recommended dimensions for the nesting boxes?


Thanks so much!
Tausha

 

[Imp]

Cedar lumber is OK. The concern with cedar, is the shavings. The large surface area gives off a lot of volatile oils that can harm the respiratory system. If it smell very strong let it air out.

Not sure about the nestboxes. I use buckets

Imp

 

[The Coastal Chicks]

Thank you... I had read about the cedar shavings now that I think about it but I did not even think of it in regards to a structure.
It is airing now and I will let it go a few more days...

I had thought about using dishwashing tubs...for easy cleaning... do you have "top"/roof on the nesting boxes?

 

[Imp]

Quote:
I've read that people use dishwashing tubs, kitty litter boxes, just about anything. I use 5 gallon orange Home Depot buckets on their sides, so yes they are covered, but I don't think it is a requirement. Unless the chickens are sleeping in the nests, I haven't found that they need cleaning much. Dusty, but no scrubbing needed. I've never let a broody hatch, so maybe they get dirty if they are incubating eggs.

Imp

ETA- Darker nests are supposed to reduce the risk of egg eating.

 

[The Coastal Chicks]

Thanks for the tips!!
have a Great day! Clever use of buckets I like that...