How to get hens to use their nesting box(es)?

[jarclyn]

My babies are finally at the age to start laying, and we're really excited! I think maybe just one or two are laying right now (we have 4),and I know for sure my EE isn't laying,we've only gotten brown eggs. While we have gotten some eggs so far, we're having a problem with where they are laying. The girls will lay anywhere that is NOT their nesting box or coop area. Only one egg has been laid in a "preferred" area, the rest have all been laid in the dirt! Also, can we eat the eggs if they've been laid in the dirt? I don't know how porous their eggs are. Basically, I just need any tips and tricks that you guys have to get my babies to lay where they are supposed to lay. Thanks!

 

[Rich386]

Put golf balls or fake eggs in the box so they get the idea.

 

[chickenpooplady]

First of all congrats on your first eggs! Those are the best! You can try putting golf balls or plastic eggs in the nest boxes to show them where to lay. I would personally still eat the eggs that were laid in the dirt. As long as you clean them very well they will be fine. I hope that helps!