nest trouble

[jmat]

My hens have just started laying eggs . For the last two days they have been defecating in their nests. When I clean it out, they lay eggs. How can I change this behavior?

 

[sourland]

Are your nest boxes lower than your roosts ? Generally defecating in the nest is a result of sleeping there. Chickens like to roost at the highest point possible. If the roosts are lower than the nest boxes, try raising the roosts.

 

[jmat]

Are your nest boxes lower than your roosts ? Generally defecating in the nest is a result of sleeping there. Chickens like to roost at the highest point possible. If the roosts are lower than the nest boxes, try raising the roosts.

my nest boxes are the same height as the roosts, will have to see what adjustments I can make. thx

 

[aart]

Are they sleeping in the nests?

 

[jmat]

Are they sleeping in the nests?

yes, i will try to raise the roosts

 

[venymae]

let us know it it works! It worked for my father, so here's hoping!

 

[lcwmt]

yes, i will try to raise the roosts

that will do it. It might take a day or so but all will be well.

 

[aart]

yes, i will try to raise the roosts

You may still have to relocate them or block the nests around roosting time.

 

[RUNuts]

So, would it be kosher to block the nests and put a cardboard box or bucket on its side at floor level for the nest? Not under the roosts, though? I wonder if there is space to raise the roosts.

My nest boxes wound up 2/3 of the way between the floor and the roost. I've got one hen sleeping in one corner of the second box. The newly laid eggs are coming in the other nest box, thankfully. I'm seeing a chicken tractor in her future.

 

[aart]

I've got one hen sleeping in one corner of the second box.

I 'retrain' any bird that I find trying to sleep in nests.
It's not that hard, just move them to roost if I find them in nest after dark when I lock up.
On second thought, it's not hard in my coop.... as it's all easily accessible.