How can I get my chickens to roost on a roost?

[paynemom]

I know I messed them up as baby chicks, but now that 3 are 16 wks and 3 are 11 wks, they won't sleep on the roost. I left the 4 nesting boxes open, (stupid, I know) and they always try to sleep in them. So I tried to block them off by putting boards over them, but now they sleep on the boards! As soon as I take them off, they will go right back to the boxes. What can I do? How can I block them? Some will be laying soon, so I will have to let them back in. I tried going in the coop at night and placing them on the roost, but it doesn't last. ANy help would be much appreciated! Thanks!


Erika
3 BO, 2 RIRs, 1 BR

 

[Animallover606]

why not trying placeing them on the roost everyday

 

[Miltonchix]

Mine did the same thing. I left them alone. They suddenly started roosting all on their own. I just let them decide when the time was right. Now they have NOTHING to do with nesting boxes until its time to lay eggs.