My husband is building our coop right now, and he has already built the nest boxes and I am really hoping the design is not flawed. There is a row of 7 12x12x12 boxes and they are at the top of the coop so the roof of the coop is actually the nest box top. The back of the nest box, (if they face out it will be where their butts are,) is where we will open it to get the eggs. So there is the nest box opening on the inside of the coop, and then on the outside of the coop there is a door that flips open to grab the eggs. There is a ledge so the eggs don't just roll out. I know people usually put the openings to grab the eggs on the top so I am wondering if sticking it off the back is a good idea. It's too tall to do it from the top, but it's not a walk in either.
my inlaws made their nest boxes so that you have to slide a piece of wood off the back (like opening a sliding door) the same way your explaining, and it works well for them!
My nest boxes are opened from the roof as they are mounted on the outside. I imagine that opening from the back (outside) is just as good. Whatever works for you. A strip of wood or such to keep the eggs and nesting materials from falling out is a good idea. If I did not have something to keep the pine shavings in the nest box, shavings would be all over the floor of the coop. I suggest a retaining strap be installed to keep the folding section from dropping all the way down. That way you will have a shelf to use to collect the eggs and it will be simpler to close. I try not to over think all this. After all, these are chickens, their needs are few. Chris
The only thing I read that's makes me pause is it sounds like the nest boxes are up real high in the coup. Usually the nest boxes are lower, below the perches, and not in direct sunlight, they like it a little on the dark side.
Thankyou everyone! My husband wanted them high and I kept saying what you said... Then I read that having them high up reduces the chance of your chickens becoming egg eaters. I don't know though. Anyone else have opinions?
I agree that they should be low. Also, if they are above the roosting bars, they will decide to sleep in the nest boxes instead of the bar. Then you will get dirty eggs. I have 6 next boxes and all the girls chose the darkest one, the farthest from the windows and decided that is the best one to lay their eggs in.
I agree X 2, they WILL roost at the highest point, and if that's your nest boxes, that's where they'll be. Jack
