Laying Boxes

[Goombalina]

I am seeing 2 schools of thought on laying boxes. Some people leaves the boxes open from the jump... others block them off. I blocked them off, my hens are 17 weeks and reddened at the face, squatting, etc. Which info is accurate now.... open them in anticipation of eggs, or wait for an egg to open them? Thank you flock guides!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I would open them up. Pullets start looking at them long before they begin to lay. I'd also add fake eggs. The only reason to block them off is if they are sleeping in them. That happens when there isn't enough roost options or roost space.

 

[Goombalina]

I would open them up. Pullets start looking at them long before they begin to lay. I'd also add fake eggs. The only reason to block them off is if they are sleeping in them. That happens when there isn't enough roost options or roost space.

Thank you. That's what my instinct tells me.