Need some advice on building nest boxes

[psrumors]

I should finish up the 8x8 coop this week. I will start puting the tar paper and shingles down tomorrow.

On the back wall we plan to hang the nest boxes outside the coop using the 16" on center 2x4 studs as the spacing for the boxes.

Imagine having an open wall and building nest boxes hanging off the outside. I am having a hard time figuring out the actual material to use so that it is accessable from the outside and it is water proof.

We have kicked the idea around to use a slanted top with shingles and a drop down door for the long side but there again, what material to use for it to hold up?

 

[SSO202]

You should be able to make them fairly durable by using a good grade plywood, sealing it with primer and then paint with good exterior paint. If you check the coop pages you'll see a lot of ideas. Good Luck!

 

[Schroeder]

I think I've built the type you are describing. I think I'll need more secure latches on the outside.

 

[AllChookUp]

psrumors - What the people said prior to me is good advice. Nest boxes are generally 12"x12"x12".

One suggestion I would make is not to have them lower than your roosts - This will encourage them not to sit (& poop) in the nest boxes.

Good luck!

 

[Pullet Pimp]

Quote:
I always thought it was the other way around. You want your roost higher than your nest boxes since chickens will find the highest place to roost in the coop. Is that not the case? Mine are lower than the roost are. Mine are also not laying yet so I have yet to experience the poopy eggs or boxes.

 

[Wynette]

Yep - you want your roosts to be the highest place they can sit on; they will roost at the highest spot.

Here are the nest boxes in my new coop:

 

[patandchickens]

Quote:
Indeedy.



Pat