nest boxes

[ChickenMomma91]

Our coop (just the floor right now) is 7x4 and we are trying to figure out dimensions for 4 nest boxes. we're only getting 3 chickens but i want them to have a lot of options lol so they don't fight over the nests

 

[ChickenCanoe]

They won't fight over nests. 1 nest for 4 birds is sufficient. 2 for 3 birds will be more than enough. They'll all only use 1 anyway. Sometimes two at a time will sit in a nest and lay. 12"X12"X12" is standard but I like them a little taller, like 16-18".

While you're at this stage it is a good idea to consider placement. The chickens should have a straight shot from their door to the nests so they don't have to walk under the roosts to lay. Otherwise they'll track feces into the nests.

ETA

I also like the nests at least a foot above the floor so they don't scratch bedding and feces into the nests. A perch just outside the box will be appreciated. They like to jump up and peer in before stepping in to lay.

 

[JeanR]

With 3 hens you will need just one nest box (2, if you insist, but one will remain empty.). Hens prefer to lay in the same box and wait their turn or 2 at a time, if the hens allow it. Why? When one hen lays, the nest is seen as a safe place--and if waiting her turn, wouldn't you like to crawl into a "warm bed"? Also, all hens do not lay every day, so taking turns is no big deal..... Not to worry==and enjoy those eggs when they start coming.

 

[funny farmer]

Thank you for sharing this. I am always finding two hens in the nest box and wondering why when there's an empty next box right next to it. I have 3 nest boxes for 9 hens and it seems they all like this one next box in particular and the other two sit empty.

 

[ChickenMomma91]

Well my DH will like the amount of boxes cut in half! Less work for him lol. I'll post pics of our layout design later