Nest Boxes

[Choco Maran]

Okay guys I know this topic has been up before but I"m in the middle of building nest boxes for about 45 hens. They are all about 18 weeks old and getting ready. My husband and I are going to bulid this week end. We are thinking 12x14 for the boxes and about 22 boxes. My question is : Will this be enough and are they going to be big enough. I have a mix flock and I beleive the best breed I have Orpington both white and buff. What do you guy think.

Thanks for all the ideas in advance.

 

[Judy]

One box for every 4 hens is plenty --- they won't use that many, anyway. I'd probably build 8 or 10, at most.

Actually, I'd go find 8 or 10 discarded cardboard boxes, kitty litter pans, old plastic bins, etc. I've never spent money on one.

12x14 is fine -- a lot of people build 12x12. Or they build about 12x20, a group nest box. They often lay two in a box at the same time, anyway.

 

[Choco Maran]

Great idea ddawn. We should have thought of that. Are main cooop has an old kitchen cabnet. no doors or drawers. same idea

 

[bigoakhunter]

Quote:
I agree! only need 8-10 nestboxes....and they will have their favorites. SO 8 would work!

 

[UrbanChick101]

My Buff orpington is naughty and lays her eggs in front of the nest box... I put her in the box, she jumps out. The other one/ones I have laying have consistently used the boxes. I have 3 boxes for my 6 and they eggs have been in all three, normally only in one. No need for too many choices!!