New Member - First Time Coop Builder Question

[cwittenauer]

Welcome to BYC. Given a large enough coop, I prefer inside access nestboxes because of predator and weather considerations.

Great point about predators. Thanks!

 

[Wee Farmer Sarah]

Don’t forget to allow for “chicken math.” It’s a condition caused by the joy of owning chickens. More chickens, more joy! LOL!

 

[aart]

I am finalizing the design for my first coop and have a question:

Should I build the egg boxes inside the coop with an access panel to get the eggs from the outside or build the whole box so it is attached to the outside?

I would suggest you start a new thread here showing your plans.
Oh, good, already done...see you there!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/first-time-coop-builder-question.1337787/

Welcome to BYC!
Here's how to add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, (laptop version shown), then it's always there!

 

[BullChick]

Regardless, don’t forget a raccoon safe lock.

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
I prefer exterior access or at least access where you don't have to enter the coop or stoop down to collect eggs. Regardless if the nest boxes themselves are inside the coop or out, the eggs are going to freeze if the boxes are not heated on days the temp remains below 25F. I will soon be installing seedling heating mats under the chopped straw in my boxes and plugging them in when needed. If you want something more automated, you can plug them into a thermocube. Of course, this dictates your coop is hard-wired.
Exterior access boxes can be made predator, and just as importantly, water proof if properly designed.

 

[N F C]

Good for you on building the coop before getting the flock! Some good points from the other greeters so all I'll add is not to waste time and materials on building a nesting box for each bird. For 5 or fewer chickens, I wouldn't bother with more than 2 boxes (and don't be surprised if they all want to use the same box).

Best of luck with your build, thanks for joining us!

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens, the pulse beat of the chicken community.

 

[Claires Poultry]

Hello and welcome to BYC!

We're so glad to have you here with us!

Thank you for joining our wonderful community of fellow poultry enthusiasts!

 

[trumpeting_angel]

Welcome! So glad to have you here!

 

[007Sean]

Howdy and Welcome to Backyard Chickens.

Happy to have you here with us. Enjoy your time here at BYC!

Thanks for joining our community!