chickens won't go into their coop

[chickaruby]

I have two chickens that are 5 months old and they will not go in their coop. We built such a nice place for them but they never liked it I had to chase them to put them in each night and I eventually gave up. But now they are laying eggs in my neighbors yard (he thinks it great). we would like them in thier coop. How can I break them of this habit. They currently like to be perched on our porch. They are not safe here as we have had a fox attack in the past. Please help!

 

[chickenpatch]

How many hens do you have and what is your coop like? Could you post a picture?

If they don't go in when it's starts getting dark then there are a few tricks. If you have around 8 hens, feed them one cup of seed in the morning. Then let them free range for the entire day. When it starts getting dark, they should be hungry. Call for them, offer them some vegies and a let them fill themselves with seed (Inside their coop). Then make sure they are all asleep in their coop before you lock up or leave.

Do this for a few days/weeks or until they get used to going to their coop at dawn. Naturally they roost in trees, but you can teach them how to sleep in their coop.

If you don't have the time, can't bother or they are just not getting the hang of it (Quite unlikely) then simply fence off an area for them to free range on. Maybe at least put a fence between you and your neighbour.