New to raising chickens

[Angel13]

We have 9 hens (had 10 but she turned out to be a he) they are 13 weeks. When do we open the nesting boxes? I know they won't be laying for a while but I don't know if we need to open the boxes now so they can get used to them or wait?

Thanks,
Angel

 

[Angel13]

Anyone??? ;-)

 

[azygous]

By all means let them have access to the coop and the boxes! Around a month before they begin to lay, the pullets will show a heightened curiosity about the nest boxes, and they'll explore them,kind of like playing "house".

By the time they start to lay, they'll be familiar with the set-up and will feel comfortable there to lay their first eggs.

 

[Angel13]

What is the best stuff to use in the nesting boxes? My hubby was thinking hay. What are some other good options?

 

[azygous]

Everyone has their own preferences. Lots of folks like straw. I use wood shavings. They're less likely to mold than straw. They're very inexpensive, too.

 

[Angel13]

Thank you for your help... I can't wait to start getting eggs.