Okay, so the hens have started laying again (yay!!!). Last year, we used random things for nestboxes (a dog crate, a bucket with the side cut out of it, etc.) for the few layers that we had, but this year we have several more layers and we need more nestboxes, so I figured I'd just go ahead and build some. I have a few questions though. What is the best heigth to hang the nestbox? I know to keep the roosts higher than the nestbox, just not sure how high. My coop is 8' tall. Also, the nestbox I am almost finished building is made out of a bunch of recycled materials, I used mainly boads from a pallet to frame it with, and I'm planning to use plywood for the top and bottom, and peg board for the sides and to divide between the 4 nests. Because I am using old wood, I am afraid of mites, and I also want to make it look pretty and last longer, so what would be the best to paint it with? One more question- is a nestbox that is 10" w, 14" l, and 12" high a good size for standard hens (Buff orpingtons and similar sized mutts)? Any input is welcome, thanks!