Nesting boxes

[Karen711]

I will be using sand in my coop & run but would appreciate any info on what you think is best for the nesting boxes?? Straw?? Hay?? Pine Shavings??
Thanks

 

[Karen711]

Nest boxes In my nest boxes I fold a feed bag to fit (nest boxes are 1 ft³). When a bag gets soiled; fold a new one; pop out the soiled; pop in the new. Feed bags are a nylon mesh bag. Frozen poop just peels off in below freezing temperatures and just flakes off in summer when left out in the sun to bake and dry. I have 65 trips around the sun it is the best method I have stumbled upon. Make sure the twine is removed from the open end of the bag it can get tangled around your birds.

Hi there, the bag and that's it? Nothing else??

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I use both hay and shavings, sometimes just shavings, sometimes I mix the two, I use the hay to form the bowl and the shavings in the middle. It can depend on how vigorous your hens are in the boxes. I would try what's easier for than switch it if it doesn't work. Shavings have more cushion to them but are kicked out easier. Hay can mat down quickly and encourage mites if not changed regularly.

 

[Karen711]

I use both hay and shavings, sometimes just shavings, sometimes I mix the two, I use the hay to form the bowl and the shavings in the middle. It can depend on how vigorous your hens are in the boxes. I would try what's easier for than switch it if it doesn't work. Shavings have more cushion to them but are kicked out easier. Hay can mat down quickly and encourage mites if not changed regularly.

Thanks for the info

 

[Hokum Coco]

Quote:

 

[punkiss]

Exactly how high off the coop floor can the nesting boxes be ?

 

[Hokum Coco]

Exactly how high off the coop floor can the nesting boxes be ? About two feet is a good height gives room for feeders and waters under neath and easy access for the hens without a ladder.

 

[Pork Pie]

Personally i use dry grass clippings and leaves for both the nest boxes and under the roost - its free, so why bother spending money on stuff when its not necessary?

CT

 

[Karen711]

Personally i use dry grass clippings and leaves for both the nest boxes and under the roost - its free, so why bother spending money on stuff when its not necessary? 

CT

Interesting.... May do that in the summer then

 

[Ridgerunner]

Different people use hay, straw, wood shavings, Spanish moss, grass clippings, leaves, carpet, shredded paper, rags, and who knows what else. Many different things can work but I go along with CT. What’s available and inexpensive?

Some people are quite happy with nests sitting on the coop floor. Some like them high enough so they don’t have to bend over to get the eggs. Do you have a bad back? Some people have the nests somewhere in between. I have no idea what is best for you. Are you going to go into the coop to gather eggs or will you have outside access? Will your hens be hatching in those nests? Do you have Silkies that can’t fly? How big is your coop and how many chickens do you have (is floor space that critical to you?)

The main idea is to make them convenient for you. I find people care about this more than the chickens, but it can affect your comfort and convenience.