How many nest boxes do I need

[sgoff]

I have 11 pullets that should start laying in about 30 days. how many nest boxes do I need?

Thanks

 

[Badbaby05]

I would say 3

 

[Fritatta]

I vote for 4. you can stack em.

 

[BookWorm243]

A rule of thumb is about 3 hens per box. I think that 4 boxes would be a good number.

 

[Nava]

2 maybe 3
usually it calls fot 1 nest box per 5 chickens

 

[SunnyCalifornia]

All 6 of my hens pile into one "favorite" box, and complain loudly when its taken. I've seen them double stacked in there laying, even though there is a empty, perfectly good next box 3 feet away.

I'd probably make 3 or 4, but don't be surprised when they only use one!

 

[Desert Rooster]

I have 5 boxes for 9 hens, but they always argue over and use only 2 of them

 

[fshinggrl]

I had 13 hens and had 3 nest boxes. No issues. I'd generally find most of the eggs in one or two of them. Saw some double laying going on, but not much.

 

[sgoff]

Wow! Amazed at this forum... Posted my inquiry last night and had 7 answers this morning. Wow! again..... looks like I'll make 3 and see if thats enough!

 

[kla37]

I have 3 boxes for 8 hens, and they all want to use the same two. One has never been used except in an emergency.