do i need nest boxes?

[backyardchickenfarmer]

Hello, I'm making my coop for 4 bantams and the house part is 4x4 and the run part is 4x8 foot. there is roosts in the house and i wanted to know if i can just do roosts and no nest boxes.being that they really dont lay eggs i dont think there necessary. so can i just put roosts in there?Thanks

 

[ghulst]

I would put a small 8x8x8 in for them off the floor so they wouldn't eat the eggs. A heavy cardboard box will also work.

 

[CovenantCreek]

You should probably provide something for them to build a nest on, even just a pile of straw that's away from the droppings coming off the roost.

 

[waynesgarden]

Bantams don't lay eggs? Do you have all roosters?

Wayne

 

[backyardchickenfarmer]

sorry, i wrote that wrong:/ they dont lay eggs as much as egg layers. the still do they eggs but not as much, i hope that clears any confusion

 

[waynesgarden]

They will prefer to have a clean, quiet and semi-private area to lay their eggs. Otherwise, they will find odd corners or other places to lay them. I'm assuming you will collect them and not leave them laying there until they rot, get eaten by the birds or critters that get into the coop. Having one simple nest box will make it easier for you and the hens will be more comfortable.

Wayne

 

[KareyABohr]

Stack two milk crates (Cheap to buy at Wal-Mart) on top of eachother top facing side of course like little shelves. Lay straw in the bottom and you have two nest boxes.

I bet you get a lot more eggs with them. AND they don't take up very much room.