Nesting boxes being built - too big???

[Merci BeauCoop]

We are in the final stages of having our "dream coop" built. I have asked the builder to build our nesting boxes 12" x 12" x 12". I even drew on graph paper to scale how I wanted them. Well, this is his 2nd attempt and now they are approximately 12" x 12" and 18" high at the opening. It does have a 45 degree angle on the roof of the boxes which makes the interior even higher at the back. (I asked for the 45 degree angle so they wouldn't hang out on it.) My question is: How big a deal should I make this? Is 18"+ too high for the roof of the box? Will it not make it a cozy enough space? Is it not that big of a deal? This is my first experience with chickens.

 

[Jbum]

I would think it would be just fine but if not simply build the bottom up a few inches. But again I don’t think the chickens will mind

 

[wyoDreamer]

It should be fine, some people use nest boxes without a top. If it seems to be a problem, hang a curtain to make the boxes darker inside.

 

[A_Fowl_Guy]

It should be fine, some people use nest boxes without a top. If it seems to be a problem, hang a curtain to make the boxes darker inside.

Yep, I use milk crates filled with straw and they love it.
@Merci BeauCoop yku will definitely be fine with your nesting boxes!

 

[Chickassan]

I just fetched an egg out of the bird bath, your girls will be FINE with those boxes.

 

[A_Fowl_Guy]

I just fetched an egg out of the bird bath, your girls will be FINE with those boxes.

Wish you got a picture of that

 

[SurferchickinSB]

We are in the final stages of having our "dream coop" built. I have asked the builder to build our nesting boxes 12" x 12" x 12". I even drew on graph paper to scale how I wanted them. Well, this is his 2nd attempt and now they are approximately 12" x 12" and 18" high at the opening. It does have a 45 degree angle on the roof of the boxes which makes the interior even higher at the back. (I asked for the 45 degree angle so they wouldn't hang out on it.) My question is: How big a deal should I make this? Is 18"+ too high for the roof of the box? Will it not make it a cozy enough space? Is it not that big of a deal? This is my first experience with chickens.

It’s not a big deal, the main thing is chickens like their privacy and the taller height is OK because a lot of times they stand up when they lay their eggs. I have three of my nesting areas right under the poop board which is 2 feet high, so they have about that much room, nearly 24 inches of height. My chickens are all large breed heritage types.

 

[Merci BeauCoop]

Ok - it’s official. I overthought the coop again! Thanks everybody! I just want them to love their home.

 

[A_Fowl_Guy]

Ok - it’s official. I overthought the coop again! Thanks everybody! I just want them to love their home.

Hey! Overthinking will give you a great coop though!

 

[Merci BeauCoop]

It’s not a big deal, the main thing is chickens like their privacy and the taller height is OK because a lot of times they stand up when they lay their eggs. I have three of my nesting areas right under the poop board which is 2 feet high, so they have about that much room, nearly 24 inches of height. My chickens are all large breed heritage types.

Thank you!