grannys gone and done it

[campingshaws]

They have an open roost in the other end. We put in the loft because the tractor is chicken wire, and not predator proof like the loft. It was used last summer for growing out babies.

 

[Tumbling K]

okay.

build a frame, to fit the a frame, just under the frame of the loft area. cover with hardware cloth. remove loft decking, and place hardware frame just under the loft frame, with the hardware cloth on the bottom of the frame.

they can roost on the loft deck frame, the hardware cloth will keep predator proof.

I'd build the nesting box to fit the window on the far end of the tractor. I'd also use a flip top, sloped lid on the box, that you can securely latch closed.

 

[campingshaws]

okay.

build a frame, to fit the a frame, just under the frame of the loft area.  cover with hardware cloth.  remove loft decking, and place hardware frame just under the loft frame, with the hardware cloth on the bottom of the frame.

they can roost on the loft deck frame, the hardware cloth will keep predator proof.

I'd build the nesting box to fit the window on the far end of the tractor.  I'd also use a flip top, sloped lid on the box, that you can securely latch closed.

Seems like it would be easier to replace the chicken wire with hardware cloth? I don't know if I could build the frames like you're talking about, mostly because I don't totally understand.

But I really like the nest box idea.

 

[Wishing4Wings]

(I wrote this before Bert's last response)

I think you should keep the loft. Added security for your valuable Honas. Seems something might be able to dig under at night.

You want them to roost. Mites can become more of a problem when they "nest." Use 2x4s to make an H shape with the crossbar long enough to accommodate both birds. They will still poop on the "legs", but you can pull it out whenever and clean it. Pine shavings or rice hulls (even better) for litter make an easy way to clean up the poops. Treat it like a cat box and clean it frequently. That's what I do with my bantam coop.

A movable nest box would work fine. Cardboard, square bucket laid on it's side, tubs, baskets... Something easy to clean is good. I have cardboard boxes as extra nests and they work fine if they stay dry. Disposable, easy to find.

 

[Tippylou]

Quote:
My theory on that is similar to getting more sleep and feeling more tired, because you've had enough sleep to realize how tired you are! Days off work the same. The stress from work always keeps you amped up, and when you have an extra day to relax, you get to feel how exhausted you've been. Ain't stress wonderful? You need a vacation. Come to California! The whales are migrating!
I do think it is the stress! I turned off the alarm this morning and slept the best sleep for 3 more hours!

 

[campingshaws]

MITES. Speaking of mites, are these mites?

They were only right by the door. Some had wings. I was already thinking of whitewashing/painting the loft floor, so now I guess I should. :/

 

[Tumbling K]

Seems like it would be easier to replace the chicken wire with hardware cloth? I don't know if I could build the frames like you're talking about, mostly because I don't totally understand.

But I really like the nest box idea.

It might be. Tomorrow please remind me and I can sketch up what I'm talking about.

 

[Tippylou]

MITES. Speaking of mites, are these mites?



They were only right by the door. Some had wings. I was already thinking of whitewashing/painting the loft floor, so now I guess I should.

I have great success buying the paint for decking. It lasts for many years.

 

[Tippylou]

Quote:

 

[Wishing4Wings]

MITES. Speaking of mites, are these mites?



They were only right by the door. Some had wings. I was already thinking of whitewashing/painting the loft floor, so now I guess I should.

Those don't look like the mites I've seen here. Don't think there is a winged stage for them. Not sure about lice though and maybe you've got different types.


This old thread has some nest box ideas. I just looked at the pictures.
Show us your nest boxes! Ingenous design post it here!