How early do I need nest boxes in the coop?

[vortec]

I have two australorp hens that are 10 weeks old and the rest of the hens are 6-7weeks old. How soon do I need to have the nest boxes avalible for them? Is there a period of time that they begin to settle in and have to get used to sitting on the nest, or do the nest boxes just need to be in there by laying age? Thanks

vortec

 

[azelgin]

I don't know how soon you need them in there. Ours were already in the coop before the chickens were. The pullets started checking them out and scratching in them 2 to 3 weeks before we got the first egg. Golf balls were in there too. The only other places we find eggs is a mop bucket in the carport and a trash can full of hay rope in the barn. I think the sooner you have them in the coop, the more likely they are going to use them as their first choice nest.

 

[chickenkate]

You can put them in as soon as you want.

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
I agree. Be sure your roosts are higher than your nest boxes to discourage anyone from wanting to sleep (and poop) in the nest boxes.