My hen's just started laying and now I realize my nest boxes are to ..

[Pampered Chicken]

My nest boxes are to small. If I change them now am I going to really upset them? Poor things barely fit in. The are only 11x11. If I switch and lay them on there side they will be 11X14 or should I just make new ones? Thanks for any input.

 

[emys]

I would go ahead and change them now, just put some fake or store bought eggs in them so they get the idea that it is still a safe place to lay.

 

[cherylcohen]

I thought 12" x 12" was an ok size and you're not to far off

 

[the simple life]

Are you sure they are crammed in there? They are suppose to be snug so the hen feels safe.
Mine are 12x12 and I have seen 2 big orpington hens squeeze themselves in there and then a third climb on top of them.
An inch should not make any difference.

 

[The Chicken People]

I would wait until they are in the run or free ranging ( if you let them) and do it then dont disturb during peak laying periods! Thats when I clean the coop and nest boxes after they have given me six or seven eggs for the day!

 

[wildorchid053]

mine is 2' deep and they still back up till their tall is pushed against the back to lay.. you are probably ok

 

[LynneP]

Well it depends on the size of your hens, my boxes are 15" x 15" x 15" and the hens are sexlinks (golden comets).
You could make new ones or possibly make a large communal box and see how they react.