Laying eggs on the ground

[Gross]

My hens have just started laying and will not use the nesting boxes I've had set up for weeks. I have placed golf balls in them and even left a real egg in one while a hen was looking to make her nest to lay. She also laid on the ground. I have wooden boxes and plastic milk crates, both filled with wood shavings. What can I do different? I have placed the boxes on the ground where they have laid. I have placed some about 8 to 10 inches off the ground and have some 3 to 4 feet off the ground. All are below the roosting poles. I guess they just like the ground.

 

[Chick Charm]

Some flocks just take a while learning where to lay. Keep with it and they will learn....hopefully!

Make sure it is a darkened area that has privacy. Make it small enough they feel safe.

Hope that helps.