do we close off nesting boxes until laying

[peony07]

Our girls are in their new coop, though the run isn't finished. They have free run of the yard (and are a pain in the rear to catch!)
Should we block off the nesting boxes until they are of laying age? What if we just leave them empty or just line them with shavings instead of straw? They are sitting in them like roosts and pooping in them. thoughts, thanks.

 

[Omran]

Quote:
Yes I would block the boxes till they are about 14 weeks old and they got used to roost, otherwise, they will start sleeping in them and take it as a bad habit.

 

[GardeNerd]

I have read to keep them out until they are close to laying age for the same reasons Omran mentioned. I covered mine with duct tape and cardboard. They don't even know there is a space in there yet.