Do I Need a Ladder? (New to Raising Chickens)

[thelordsblessing2017]

If that's why you bought it, you sadly overpaid, those coops are not predator proof, the nest box doors can be popped open by raccoons. make sure you replace the hardware with locks and give it another coat of paint to slow down the warping.

Well it must be a very strong raccoon because I can barely open the boxes. I put them on too tight but I also have clips on them that lock, they are drill on the inside so in order for me to open them i have to go inside and unlock it first. I will see about the warping. We've had alot of rain in my area and it been out in the rain since February, no warning. But we did put clear coat on. But we will see. I haven't seen any raccoons in my yard, I have 3 acres. I also have 4 beagles and a mastiff. So far they've scared away the rabbits and deer but I have yet to see any raccoons. But will keep an eye out.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

An alternative to buckets is sections of a tree trunk.

Probably better looking than my cinder blocks, too! They hop up on the blocks then stretch their necks to peer into the nests to see if they are occupied.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Probably better looking than my cinder blocks, too! They hop up on the blocks then stretch their necks to peer into the nests to see if they are occupied.

Cinder blocks are another good option, especially if steps are needed outside as they don't get slippery like wooden steps or a ramp would when wet from rain.