How to set up the coop--how do the chicks "know" how to use nest boxes

[bawkbawk]

My 8 pullets are still in the brooder, but I wanted to get some opinions before they are ready to be moved to the coop.

Our coop has nesting boxes already set up/built in. Should they be lined with bedding from the beginning or would you waut till the chicks get closer to laying age to do so? How do they "know" how to use the nesting box--what keeps them from just laying wherever they happen to be standing?

I was going to line the floor of the coop with the same bedding as the nesting boxes (we've been using pine shavings). Is there a way that you should set up the nesting area to make it different fromt he rest of the coop?

Thanks for the help!

 

[Judy]

They don't always know. Sometimes they do lay on the floor of the coop, or in the yard, or wherever. They do seem to have an instinct to look for a sort of secluded spot to lay, though, at least after they've been laying a while. My new batch has been laying for a month, and have finally started doing all their laying in nest boxes.

You can use the pine shavings in the nest box, or you can use a different material like hay, if you wish. I do both and they use both. A golf ball, wooden or ceramic egg, or something similar seems to help many of them learn to use nest boxes.

I would close off the nests til the combs start turning red and the time is approaching. Prevents their developing the habit of sleeping in nest boxes, which leads to poopy eggs.

By the way, if your weather is anything like ours and they are 3 weeks old or older, you can move them out now.

 

[#1California Chick]

You should close off the nests until right before your chickens are ready to lay. You want them to get used to sleeping on the roosts, not in the nests.

 

[Hen_House_Rocks!]

Thanks for posting this question. I was wondering the same thing, myself!

 

[rainbowgardens]

Is it easier for them to learn if they have older laying hens to watch?

 

[Judy]

Quote:
Good question!

 

[bawkbawk]

...and where do you place the feeder and waterer?

I was planning on having one inside the coop and then one in the run (though they'll have access to the coop during the day since it will be open).

Anyone with chicken know-how want to weigh in?