Nesting box lid?

[polishchickens111]

I'm building a coop for 6 chickens, and it has 2 nesting boxes. The nesting boxes jut out of the coop and have a slanted lid. To access the eggs, the lid opens on the top by swinging upwards. Has anyone with a similar setup ever had to put latches on the lid so predators don't get in? I've wondered how many racoons have pried the lids open and killed the flock.

 

[SmokinChick]

My chicks aren't laying yet, darn it. But, my lids are about 4' off the ground. They also have sides and a front, so they are heavy. Click the link and scroll down. i haven't painted them yet. They are now but no new pics.
I do have plans for a small latch at some point, just for peace of mind.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=516023

 

[polishchickens111]

Ok, thank you. Beautiful coop!

 

[KDK1]

I would latch... mine are. Very little work and expense for the added security.

 

[msviolaceous]

Wow, I had no idea it wasn't critical to latch the nest box cover! Maybe I went a little overboard... we don't have to tell my husband about this, right??

 

[Chinchilla2]

I would put latches on, one for either end to prevent something or someone from trying to pry the lid up. A "better safe than sorry" measure. My coop has similar boxes to what you mention (or will once I finish building it). While my dogs keep assorted four legged critters at bay, I do have one of those two legged beasts called an 8-y/o boy who would never allow my lady birds to get any privacy so latches are a mandatory piece of equipment.

 

[bustermommy]

Better safe than sorry.

 

[bryan99705]

If you think about it, it's the easiest way for a coon or any climber to enter, they simply push up with their head and crawl into your coop. Put a hasp and snap link on the door (a short piece of string will keep you from loosing the snaplink)