How many nests needed

[Larry in Hawaii]

We have 4 grown hens and in a few months will add another 12 to the family (chicks now) and I was wondering just how many nests we need. In the 4'X8' coop that will be expanded I have 8 nests. I built them into the coop and am redoing them so they will set to the outside of the coop with a hinged roof..eaiser to collect the eggs. We have noticed the hens we have now that lay, only use two nests to lay in. I guess that is their favorite place to lay so why do I need so many?

 

[dan26552]

I've read its about one per two birds

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

We have 4 grown hens and in a few months will add another 12 to the family (chicks now) and I was wondering just how many nests we need. In the 4'X8' coop that will be expanded I have 8 nests. I built them into the coop and am redoing them so they will set to the outside of the coop with a hinged roof..eaiser to collect the eggs. We have noticed the hens we have now that lay, only use two nests to lay in. I guess that is their favorite place to lay so why do I need so many?

It's quite common for hens to share and they are naturally attracted to a nest where another hen has already laid (which is why you see most eggs in only a few nests). Generally you only need one box for every 4 hens, so for your flock that is soon to be 16 that would be four nests.

 

[shouts]

My 12 current hens have 6 boxes, but they only use the one highest and farthest from the door! There's a mountain of eggs in there every morning. They will always find the darkest, safest spot they can for their eggs, and it's follow the leader...