Nesting box ventilation?

[RouttyChicks]

I had an idea and just thought i would run it by the more experienced BYC'ers before i did it. My nesting box is protected from the elements by the roof on the chicken run. So i had this idea to cut a 6"x32" hole in the top and cover with hardware cloth. I was thinking this would serve two purposes - one: increased ventilation, and two: i could do egg checks with out have to lift open the lid. What do you think about this idea? Just as i was about to jigsaw the hole i had second thoughts and thought i should ask first. Maybe chickens need the privacy of a dark and shaded area for best egg laying - i don't know.

 

[Michael OShay]

I had an idea and just thought i would run it by the more experienced BYC'ers before i did it. My nesting box is protected from the elements by the roof on the chicken run. So i had this idea to cut a 6"x32" hole in the top and cover with hardware cloth. I was thinking this would serve two purposes - one: increased ventilation, and two: i could do egg checks with out have to lift open the lid. What do you think about this idea? Just as i was about to jigsaw the hole i had second thoughts and thought i should ask first. Maybe chickens need the privacy of a dark and shaded area for best egg laying - i don't know.

I think you had a good second thought. Hens generally prefer dark, private areas for laying and cutting holes in the top of your nesting box may make them nervous about using it. As far as ventilation is concerned, if your run is well ventilated, your nesting boxes should be fine. Just make sure you don't have any sunlight that shines directly on them.

 

[RouttyChicks]

Thank you - that was my thoughts also, but then again i am new to this so i thought i had better ask.