Do I have to train free range chicks to lay in nest boxes?

[lizage]

I have had one of my bantams squatting for over 2 weeks now. We opened the nest boxes, put a golf ball in each one and keep checking for eggs. I have also been checking the areas of the yard/landscape where I know they like to hang out during the day and have found nothing. I let the birds out in the morning before work and they are out until they put themselves in at night.

I do have a 'detachable' run for the coop I used for a bit while they were younger. Do I need to keep them confined until they learn to use the nest boxes? I would hate to keep them in there since they've been free-ranging for so long, but will do whatever I need to to get some eggs!

Also, how big of an egg would I expect from a newly-laying bantam? Not sure what I should even be looking for!

Thanks!

 

[lizage]

I should also add that none of my other 13 girls seem at all ready to start laying. The bantam has been going in and out of the 4 nest boxes, scratching around, pecking at the golf ball, etc. so she acts interested, for sure. I'm just not sure if she knows that's where she's supposed to lay them!

 

[BooBear]

That she is checking out the nest is a good sign. Sounds like she is getting close to making her own deposit there.
Mine had no problem laying their first egg in the nest box.