Nesting box in or bump out?

[NewcoopNewpoop]

I am building a 4x4 coop for up to 4 chickens. Should I make the nesting boxes inside or bump them out?

 

[DobieLover]

I would bump it out in a coop that small. You will never need more than one box in a coop that size.

 

[tlcmurphy]

I would bump it out in a coop that small. You will never need more than one box in a coop that size.

Agreed. I would just make one good sized box on the outside of the coop. The knuckleheads will just all scream at each other because they want to use the same box NOW.

 

[Ridgerunner]

My personal preference is at least two nests. I've had a nest hog that would take over 2 hours to lay her egg and would not let any other hen in the nest to lay with her. Even in a coop that small it is good to have a bit of flexibility.

I agree, bump it out. Maximize what space you have. If you feed or water inside that coop it may be challenging enough to not have them poop in the water or feed from the roost. Again, maximize your flexibility.

 

[Jimmy W]

Bump it out.

 

[perkolator]

Since everyone is saying out, I’ll go opposite and say in My nest boxes actually are in.

 

[NewcoopNewpoop]

There won't be any food or water in the coop.
Thank you for the input. Looks like its unanimous.

 

[NewcoopNewpoop]

Since everyone is saying out, I’ll go opposite and say in My nest boxes actually are in.

So is there a shelf above your boxes or are they "open" at the top?

 

[perkolator]

So is there a shelf above your boxes or are they "open" at the top?

Yes, I made two sets originally and the one inside coop had a shelf over nest boxes insert. The other is under the raised floor, which is the one they always preferred to use.