light source

[astodd7835]

Just converted our shed into a chicken coop. It's awesome...and big! My question is..is it more important for the roosts or nesting boxes to be closer to the window for light? Or does it matter at all? Thanks for your expertise!

 

[iwiw60]

It does matter. Especially when it comes to nesting boxes. Hens like quiet, dark places to lay their eggs. When it comes to their roost(s) you don't want an open window directly blowing air on them. I'm having the same problem, too. My Lifetime Shed has one window built-in to it, but I have another shed window ordered but can't make up my mind just 'where' to put the dang thing! If I put it on the north wall it'll be right at the height of the roost...so much for the north side. If I put it on the east side it'll be up above the nesting boxes....most likely I'll install it there...decisions, decisions!!

Best of luck!

 

[astodd7835]

That helps a lot! Thank you. I'll put the nesting boxes on the North wall and the roosts on the West wall. Can't wai to get my girls in their new Chick Inn!!!

 

[iwiw60]

That helps a lot! Thank you. I'll put the nesting boxes on the North wall and the roosts on the West wall. Can't wai to get my girls in their new Chick Inn!!!

As for your roosts try to use 2 x 4's laying "flat" .. chickens don't like to curl their feet to sleep (they're not parakeets) . This will allow them to sit on the roost and during winter months they can lay on their feet comfortably and keep warmer...just FYI in case you didn't know.

 

[astodd7835]

Actually I thought they did like round roosts so muchos gracias from my girls! Will take your advise with a smile!

 

[iwiw60]

Actually I thought they did like round roosts so muchos gracias from my girls! Will take your advise with a smile!

Oh, no! They don't like round roosts....a 2 x 4 laying 'flat' is absolutely the best...


This is just an example pic I have on my Pinterest board. Note that they put their window a tad too close at the same level as the birds would be...aaack! But I just wanted to show you the roost bars. One other thing...if you use those metal "hanger" thingies (that you put 2x4's in when building, only get the ones that will accommodate the 4" laying flat..can't remember the right name to call them) then you'll be able to remove the roost bars easily for either cleaning or replacement.

 

[astodd7835]

You just had to mention pinterest didn't you? Now following your chicken boards. Truly needed more to look at. LOL!

 

[iwiw60]

You just had to mention pinterest didn't you? Now following your chicken boards. Truly needed more to look at. LOL!

 

[aart]

Quote: That window might be fine depending on the climate...might be great for ventilation in the summer, and might not be suscepetable to prevailing winds in the winter.

Some birds like roosting near a window....mine don't seem to like it, I think because of the light.