Cockerels in nesting boxes

[lickinchicken]

I was just wondering if anyone knows why my cockerels get in the nesting boxes and turn round and round and nestle down. As they do this they make the most incredible noises...sounds like they are purring almost. It is very amusing to watch but I am very curious as to why they do it... do they just like the feeling on nesting sometimes? or is it a way of marking territory so their hens know where to lay?

 

[Sir Birdaholic]

I think it's to entice the hens to lay.He's showing them the nest, just like they show the hens food.

 

[gryeyes]

It is exactly to entice the ladies into using the nest boxes. But they gotta check 'em out first for suitability.

I think it's hysterical to see a full-sized rooster (like my Carl) stuffed into a nestbox, purring and clucking and trilling away, while a pullet stands outside listening and watching. Sure as shootin', as soon as Carl exits the nest box, the pullet gets into it. Now HE stands outside, making encouraging sounds.

Ain't nature wonderful???!?!?!

 

[pgpoultry]

Presumably your boys then join in with the 'egg song' once the hen has laid?

All my boys and a few of the other girls join in when a hen starts the eggs song. It is ear shattering!

Sandie

 

[geebs]

I think it is an adorable behavior the way the check everything out...nice roos you have.