Is my coop too dark?

[ChicoChickens]

I've noticed that my chickens actually prefer a darker place to lay their eggs. I think it makes them feel safer. I built a shed-size coop and installed an actual window (about 18"x24") thinking they would want some light. They were laying pretty well but mostly in one box (out of 8!) so I added some curtains at the front of all the boxes for added privacy and now they use them all freely. Chickens are so particular! Hee-hee

 

[Brindlebtch]

Curtains! What a great idea! I was worried that my nest boxes were too well lit, because I also read chickens like to lay in darker places and their hen house has 6 windows. I will add curtains to the nest boxes! DH is going to think I've lost it.

 

[Judy]

They do like a darker place to lay, but they also need some sunlight. Can the sun shine into the run at all?