Hey get out it's my turn to lay an eggg

[Dragonfly Ranch]

We have three smaller nesting boxes and one large box. Lately there have been two hens crowding into the same nesting box and laying at the same time. Should I worry about it? If so, any suggestions on how to cure the problem.

Sandee

 

[Firework]

I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[Happy Chooks]

I don't think it's a problem. I've had one of my pullet climb ON TOP of another hen. I guess she wanted that nest.

 

[Nostalchic]

Hey Sandee,
The only problem with this is that if they are moving alot or squabbling over the nest, they may break an egg and thus begin a long and frustrating egg-eating problem in your flock.
I'm getting ready to build a "tunnel nest" or communal nest, which is basically one large, long box with room for multiple hens to share. There are a number of posts about this, try searching 'communal nest box' - I'm hoping this will prevent that problem. Good luck! Chris

 

[Dragonfly Ranch]

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Thanks Chris

They are just sitting there all cozy when I have seen them. There is something about this one box since it is the one that is used the most through out the day. The three boxes are are all the same size and the long one with plenty of room for two or more never gets used. The other day right after our Leghorn laid an egg one of the Light Brahma got up on the perch and started to peck at the egg to roll it around. I immediately got the egg and put her down on the ground.

I have also caught the Leghorn standing on top of the Light Brahma. I guess they are on the same laying schedule.

I will search for more information on the communal type nest. Do they develop the habit of using the same nest every time?

Sandee

 

[peeboo]

lol i know the hens can get irritated with eachother when this happens but nothing to be worried about. i have seen them on many occasions sitting on the same nest at the same time. they dont look very happy but other than that, nothing bad comes of it.

 

[Firework]

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If there is an egg in there they think it is a good safe place to lay. That may be why they all lay in the same box.

 

[Happy Chooks]

Some of mine move around to different nesting boxes, some don't. My BO and RIR have their favorites, but they will sometimes lay in a different box. My light brahma will ONLY lay an egg where there's an egg. (fake or real doesn't matter) I can play musical nesting boxes with her by moving the fake eggs around.

But overall, there is a favorite box. (at least with my chickens)

 

[Firework]

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[Dragonfly Ranch]

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Oh what fun! I'm going to try it and see if it works. I got some real looking plastic eggs at easter. I'll let you know.