I think we are close....

[kingchickies]

Thank you both so much!

 

[kingchickies]

I use 5 gallon buckets. But I've also made a few outta wood. The buckets for me anyways are easier to clean. As far as hay, I know that there's so many opinions but This is my 3rd year with chickens and I've had no trouble so far. Some say not to though.

Since you use buckets too.. did you have any problems getting them to use them? I know they are getting in them and messing around but I found my first egg today...on the floor under the nesting area.. I have a couple plastic eggs in them I'm having my hubby stop and get hay, and golf balls. And we are going to make the lip taller. I have to say I was glad it was even in the coop. Lol

 

[rIrs roost]

I find an egg once in awhile on the floor but not much. Sometimes I think that they lay at night because I seem to find them under the roost. Mine free range so I've found them in the woods too lol. But usually they will use the bucket. New hens sometimes lay in odd places too until they learn that that's what the nesting boxes are for. Putting eggs or golfballs in there will help them learn that they are supposed to lay there. They seem to figure it out pretty quick.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Since you use buckets too.. did you have any problems getting them to use them? I know they are getting in them and messing around but I found my first egg today...on the floor under the nesting area.. I have a couple plastic eggs in them I'm having my hubby stop and get hay, and golf balls. And we are going to make the lip taller. I have to say I was glad it was even in the coop. Lol

The first eggs, especially, see oftern found all over the place. The process is new and sometimes confusing for these girls. Often a pullet will sit in the nest, go through all the "prep work" and then jump out and drop the egg on the floor our even scurry out to the run. Patience is key...first they figure out the how, then the where

 

[kingchickies]

The first eggs, especially, see oftern found all over the place. The process is new and sometimes confusing for these girls. Often a pullet will sit in the nest, go through all the "prep work" and then jump out and drop the egg on the floor our even scurry out to the run. Patience is key...first they figure out the how, then the where

Ok. Thanks again for the info!

 

[aart]

I use straw in nests.....and a good front lip is imperative.
I like circular nest entrances, cozier and holds bedding in very well.

Buckets are too small, IMO.
Curved 'floor', tail bending turn around, low 'ceiling' for when they stand almost fully erect to actually expel an egg.
I tried a few, all rejected for a roomier 14x14x16 box nest.


Usually only pullets tear up nests,
then quit that behavior when they get things figured out.
Tho I now have a neurotic hen that is tearing up the nests every day for weeks now.
She used to be the calmest most mellow layer,
then I isolated her for flock assessments and she started that nonsense...SMH.