Getting ready to move 'em out to the coop....

[cleoandtheo]

1. Do I HAVE to block off the nesting boxes??? Can't I just clean them up later when they are ready to start laying?

2. Their feeder & water is in the attached run. During the day they go in & out so it isn't an issue. Once they are out there at night, and I close them in for the night, will they need food & water inside too? Or can they go all night without it? (Seems like they eat & drink 24/7 in the brooder.)

3. How do they KNOW that the coop & nesting boxes have different purposes?

Thanks so much for the help! I'm so nervous about the transition.... first-timer, you know....

 

[Lesa]

It is personal choice, if you close off nesting boxes. I didn't- try not doing it, if it becomes a problem, you can always change it. Once they are roosting at night, they aren't going to get a drink or eat. But, if you aren't going to get out there at dawn (or you don't have an auto door)- it would be nice to have food and water in the coop. Instinct leads them to the nesting box-darker, smaller, etc. A golf ball never hurt either! Remember to keep them locked inside the coop for a few days, so they know that is home. They will go in at dusk, by themselves, if they are used to the coop....Chickens are very forgiving animals-they don't notice your "mistakes"- so enjoy them!