Chickens won’t roost

[Goldie01]

My chickens are 6 months old and all refuse to roost on the perch we have changed the roost 4 different times, we don’t care if they roost or not but is it bad for them not to roost? They all sleep in 2 of the nesting boxes. We have tried putting them on the roost numerous times.

 

[JDeBlois]

Do you block off access to the boxes at night?

 

[CIuck]

My chickens are 6 months old and all refuse to roost on the perch we have changed the roost 4 different times, we don’t care if they roost or not but is it bad for them not to roost? They all sleep in 2 of the nesting boxes. We have tried putting them on the roost numerous times.

I had the same problem. Block off the nesting boxes or cover them with something (cardboard) they will have no choice but to sleep on the roost. Open it up after 2 weeks and if they go back to the boxes cover it up again.

 

[PioneerChicks]

How high are the roosts off the ground? It doesn't have to be high.

 

[Suejordn]

I have the same problem. All my bantams sleep together huddled on the group. They don’t sleep in the nesting boxes or on the roost just on the ground where they always sleep since they were little. Is it bad for them not to roost?

 

[Goldie01]

Do you block off access to the boxes at night?

Yes I have blocked access and they sleep in the ground

 

[Goldie01]

I have the same problem. All my bantams sleep together huddled on the group. They don’t sleep in the nesting boxes or on the roost just on the ground where they always sleep since they were little. Is it bad for them not to roost?

Yes mine huddle on the ground what will not roosting do to them?

 

[Goldie01]

How high are the roosts off the ground? It doesn't have to be high.

There are 2 one is 18 inches then staggered another one above that

 

[rosemarythyme]

Are these Silkies or some other breed that has a harder time roosting? Any photos of your roost area, in case there's improvements that can be made to make it more appealing?

I don't give my chickens a choice, I insist they roost and they learn to do it early.

 

[PioneerChicks]

There are 2 one is 18 inches then staggered another one above that

You might want to lower one to a foot or less. Good luck with whatever you do!