How to make nesting boxes more attractive to your hens?

[FeatherToes0328]

Free range birds sometimes need to be 'trained'(or re-trained) to lay in the coop nests, especially new layers. Leaving them locked in the coop/run for a week or so can help 'home' them to lay in the coop nests. Fake eggs/golf balls in the nests can help 'show' them were to lay. They can be confined to coop and maybe run 24/7 for a few days to a week, provided you have adequate space and ventilation, or confine them at least until mid to late afternoon. You help them create a new habit and they will usually stick with it. ..at least for a good while, then repeat as necessary.

I have 3 hens that free range most of the day. They have a large coop, but not a run yet. Can I still do this by just letting them out later in the day?

 

[rosemarythyme]

I have 3 hens that free range most of the day. They have a large coop, but not a run yet. Can I still do this by just letting them out later in the day?

You can try that, though of course chickens lay throughout the day (but yes are more likely to lay in the earlier parts of the day).

 

[FeatherToes0328]

You can try that, though of course chickens lay throughout the day (but yes are more likely to lay in the earlier parts of the day).

Thank you! They are usually pacing at the door waiting for me to let them out lol!