Nesting Box Lid - Top or side?

[khuff99]

We are building our coop and I'm wondering what you all prefer for the the lid/access to the nesting box to gather your eggs - lift the top up or the side opens down? I'm trying to keep in mind what would be easier for our kids to open too. Somewhere it was suggested the side opening wouldn't startle your hens if they were in the nesting boxes? Would love your suggestions of pros and cons for either option.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I assume you're referring to boxes with outside access?

One big advantage for side opening is it helps keep rain out, as top opening boxes can have issues with rain seeping in.

 

[3KillerBs]

When we remodeled the Little Monitor Coop, we switched from the top opening to the front drop down.

The top opening was easier to build and to latch, but we were never 100% happy with the rain seal along the hinge. The front opening will require me to hunch over to look for eggs and might let the hens pop out more easily, but will be easier to operate and sure not to leak.

 

[Ridgerunner]

It's possible to make a rain-proof seal but requires some thought. To me the important thing is that whoever opens it needs to be able to see before they stick a hand in there. I've found a snake in the nest, always by sight, never by feel. Just saying.