4rbar
In the Brooder
Howdy all, 4rbar here, just call me 4.
Found the forum while searching for roll out nest box plans. Ran across Opa's pics and plans for the 6 box roll out nest box and read all 33 pages. Very interesting and extremely enlightening. I built a 9 box roll out nest box based on his design and the size box that our chickens prefer. We decided our chickens preference based on the size of pet carriers they preferred. The carrier that all the chickens liked was the small cat carrier which is roughly 11"X11"x16"-18". Therefore, I took Opa's plans and modified them to fit 9 nest boxes in the same 6 box size. Within two days chickens were using the new nest boxes. I did add a few wood chips from the carriers to the nests to encourage them, along with removing the carriers. The eggs are clean and easy to gather. Success!!! Still need to paint and complete finishing touches.
We have had chickens for close to 10 years. All the chickens are free ranging and everyday used to be an egg hunt. Over the last couple years we have learned to acclimate the chickens to laying in one place, which is working out great.
We currently have 40 hens and two roosters that include Barred rock, Rhode Island red, Buff Orpington, Ameraucana, Wyandotte, Australorp, and ISA Browns (All $1.00 pullets at farm store). Yes, I know, where did the 2 roosters come from? Poor sexing. Along with the chickens we also raise grass fed Corriente cattle and Katadan sheep. This past year we branched out and got 8 white turkeys (still $1.00 each at farm store, I'm cheep - pun intended, sorry). When they were processed they averaged 28 lbs. The heaviest was 38 lbs. Ever seen a 38 lb turkey? Haven't cooked him yet, nothing large enough.
Sorry if I rambled, I'm retired; therefore, I'm allowed.
4
Found the forum while searching for roll out nest box plans. Ran across Opa's pics and plans for the 6 box roll out nest box and read all 33 pages. Very interesting and extremely enlightening. I built a 9 box roll out nest box based on his design and the size box that our chickens prefer. We decided our chickens preference based on the size of pet carriers they preferred. The carrier that all the chickens liked was the small cat carrier which is roughly 11"X11"x16"-18". Therefore, I took Opa's plans and modified them to fit 9 nest boxes in the same 6 box size. Within two days chickens were using the new nest boxes. I did add a few wood chips from the carriers to the nests to encourage them, along with removing the carriers. The eggs are clean and easy to gather. Success!!! Still need to paint and complete finishing touches.
We have had chickens for close to 10 years. All the chickens are free ranging and everyday used to be an egg hunt. Over the last couple years we have learned to acclimate the chickens to laying in one place, which is working out great.
We currently have 40 hens and two roosters that include Barred rock, Rhode Island red, Buff Orpington, Ameraucana, Wyandotte, Australorp, and ISA Browns (All $1.00 pullets at farm store). Yes, I know, where did the 2 roosters come from? Poor sexing. Along with the chickens we also raise grass fed Corriente cattle and Katadan sheep. This past year we branched out and got 8 white turkeys (still $1.00 each at farm store, I'm cheep - pun intended, sorry). When they were processed they averaged 28 lbs. The heaviest was 38 lbs. Ever seen a 38 lb turkey? Haven't cooked him yet, nothing large enough.
Sorry if I rambled, I'm retired; therefore, I'm allowed.
4
Welcome to BYC! Glad you decided to join us. 
We are glad you joined our flock.
