Nesting box in run

[SemiSweet2391]

What’s your opinion on nesting boxes in the run? Are there pros and cons?

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

I like having a box in the run especially if I have a broody hen.

 

[thecatumbrella]

I'm testing one right now, so I have a few thoughts.

Pros:
- backup box if the coop is full (or if someone's being a bully)
- can get better airflow in summer over coop nest boxes
- can be removed if a broody's taken up residence to try and "break" her
- chickens can probably appreciate options

Cons:
- will be more likely to attract pests if sitting directly on the ground
- will get cold in winter if sitting on the ground
- easier for the birds to mess around with and play in, versus coop nest boxes

 

[Mrs. K]

How predator proof is your run? Eggs are food for a lot of animals.

 

[SemiSweet2391]

How predator proof is your run? Eggs are food for a lot of animals.

Good point! Not very to be honest.

 

[SemiSweet2391]

I'm testing one right now, so I have a few thoughts.

Pros:
- backup box if the coop is full (or if someone's being a bully)
- can get better airflow in summer over coop nest boxes
- can be removed if a broody's taken up residence to try and "break" her
- chickens can probably appreciate options

Cons:
- will be more likely to attract pests if sitting directly on the ground
- will get cold in winter if sitting on the ground
- easier for the birds to mess around with and play in, versus coop nest boxes

This is a great list! Thanks!

 

[Mother of Chaos]

Good point! Not very to be honest.

Ahh. I was thinking of rats and snakes, with nest boxes low to the ground and vulnerable.

 

[SemiSweet2391]

Ahh. I was thinking of rats and snakes, with nest boxes low to the ground and vulnerable.

Definitely waging war with rats currently. I was toying with the idea of attaching a nesting box to the outside of the coop, since ours is raised a bit. With a ramp up to it. Like an outhouse lol.