Laying / Nesting areas?

[Gravedigger]

Just planning to start in the sping and going to build coop over the winter

How many nesting areas in the coop do you need?

What size should the nests be?

I'm thinking about starting with 10 birds most likely Orpingtons or Barred Plymouth Rocks

Thank You

 

[shelleyd2008]

I think they're supposed to be 1 nest to 4 hens. Not sure what size they need to be, my bantams use 5 gallon buckets

 

[derby]

Probably 2-3 boxes about 14" H. I think about 12" wide. Most chickens aren't picky.

 

[Dustoff79]

for the heavier breeds like you want, it is recommended: one box for every 4 birds, 14" high x 14" wide x 12" deep. it is also recommended to build a slanted slope top for the nesting boxes to discourage roosting on top of the nests. also if they are raised (approx 18" off floor) have a perch on the front to allow the chickens to land there prior to entering nest box. do not forget to put a 4" front to keep in eggs and bedding. Good luck and enjoy

 

[patandchickens]

.and make sure the nestboxes are noticeably LOWER THAN the roosts, to discourage birds from sleeping in there and making things all pooey for eggs to get filthy in

Have fun,

Pat

 

[Gravedigger]

If the nests are built 14wide x 14high x 12 deep as and add on on the outside of the coop and If I decided to get smaller chickens will that be an problem.
Thank You

 

[Dustoff79]

No I don't think that will be a problem.