chickens roosting in nesting boxes

[erin0415]

I have integrated 2-3 month old chickens in with my layers and I am having a problem with them roosting in my nesting boxes. What can I do to stop them from pooping in my nesting boxes? Do I need to build up and make a smaller opening>> Here are pics of the inside.

This has a lot more roosts going across in it now. This pic was taken before the roosts were put in

 

[vwoods]

I had a few hens I got from a friend who wanted to do the same thing. I cut a piece of card board to fit over the nest box opening and would go out just before dark and cover the nesting boxes with that. In the morning, very early, to accomodate my early egg layers, I went out and removed the cardboard. After a few weeks of this the girls figured ou they are supposed to roost with the other hens and not in the box. Maybe that would work for you!

 

[sugarbush]

The nest boxes are the highest point in the coop and that is where they will roost. lower the boxes, raise the roosts or do both.

 

[erin0415]

Thanks...I may try that and see if it works. My roosts are actually higher than the nesting boxes. I think some of them just like the more enclosed area.