How do I get my hens to stop sleeping in the nest boxes?

[M To The Maxx]

I keep pushing them out but then the night after they are right back in the nest boxes.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Make sure the roosts are noticably higher than the nesting boxes. If they are close by, 6" might be enough. If they are further away, it may require at least 12".

If they are not yet laying, block off the nesting boxes so they cannot get in.

If they are laying, after they are sound asleep at night and with as little light and commotion as possible, take them from the nesting boxes and place them on the higher roosts. They should get the message after a few nights.

Good luck!

 

[gritsar]

Yep, exactly what Ridge said.

 

[M To The Maxx]

Thank you for the information.