I have three hens that are completely free ranged. Early on we tried to keep them in a coop and run but they kept escaping... so instead of fixing the run we just let them come and go. They usually stay w/in 100 yrds of run and never wonder off our property. They do not like their coop and prefer to roost in our pear tree. Since they have been roosting in the tree we haven't had any problems with predators. We lost 2 hens early on when they were in the coop to a fox.
My question is: How do I convince them to lay their eggs in the coop, or at least a spot where I can get to them? I would really hate to have all these eggs go missing! They aren't due to start laying for another 4 weeks or so. I really want to be prepared. Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks!
My question is: How do I convince them to lay their eggs in the coop, or at least a spot where I can get to them? I would really hate to have all these eggs go missing! They aren't due to start laying for another 4 weeks or so. I really want to be prepared. Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks!