Changed nesting boxes

[jgarreth]

I took my old nesting boxes out because my girls were sleeping/pooping in them. They aren't laying yet so I didn't want them to get used to doing that. I decided to put kitty litter containers and a bucket for their nesting boxes. They are so much better and seem to be more compact. Hoping they like them!! Here's some pics..

Before:




After:

 

[pichuris]

I would definately nip this in the fuzzy buts now. To do so close off the nest boxes so they have no access to the nest boxes. Then at night when they are going to bed see where they decide to go next. If its not the roost you may have to put them up there for a few nights till they get "the hint". Once they have this down & when they are closer to laying then open up the nests. If you don't you may have to change your nest boxes or clean ones again.

Good luck.

 

[aart]

Do you have a night time roosting bar (about 10-12" of length per bird)?
Is it higher than the nests?

If not, they will continue to roost and poop in the nests.

 

[jgarreth]

I took the old boxes out for several weeks and they had no boxes in there. They actually have 2 roosting bars in the coop. I put these new boxes back in yesterday and checked this morning, no poop in the boxes and no evidence they were sleeping in the new ones. I would rate this a success! Now just waiting on eggs.

 

[truckguy]

Do you have a night time roosting bar (about 10-12" of length per bird)?
Is it higher than the nests?

If not, they will continue to roost and poop in the nests.

heck I have a 6' roost for them and the 4 I have all roost together. I guess they like to be next to each other for warmth. I live in So Cal and it's not that cold here. but they are roosting every night on it. I have about a month more til they get to laying time. not sure when the exact time will be. I guess when I find an egg on the floor or ground. then it's time.

 

[pichuris]

I took the old boxes out for several weeks and they had no boxes in there. They actually have 2 roosting bars in the coop. I put these new boxes back in yesterday and checked this morning, no poop in the boxes and no evidence they were sleeping in the new ones. I would rate this a success! Now just waiting on eggs.

Awesome. Here's to clean nest boxes & lots of eggs to come!

 

[aart]

heck I have a 6' roost for them and the 4 I have all roost together. I guess they like to be next to each other for warmth. I live in So Cal and it's not that cold here. but they are roosting every night on it. I have about a month more til they get to laying time. not sure when the exact time will be. I guess when I find an egg on the floor or ground. then it's time.

They may huddle for companionship or warmth, especially when young, but more room to spread out in the heat or just extra room for getting situated at roosting time can be a benefit.

 

[truckguy]

They may huddle for companionship or warmth, especially when young, but more room to spread out in the heat or just extra room for getting situated at roosting time can be a benefit.

This was my guess as well. It is funny to see them try to turn around on the perch and not push one of the other chickens off.

But they are getting up there every night. I do have step up perch from a 2x6 I had lying around. I'm sure when they get older they may not need it.