??? on Nesting boxes...

[nuttyredhead]

So my father in law and i are making the nesting boxes, i have 12 chicks (maybe 11 and a roo) i thought i would start with 9 boxes. Is it better to put the boxes on the floor in the coop or have them up a few inches? What are the benefits of either?

Thanks!!!

Beth

 

[ADozenGirlz]

Quote:
I think the general rule is that one nest box per four chickens is enough. I have 6 nest boxes and my 9 layers only use 2 or three of them and of course, there is a favorite that they will wait and take turns using.
Wherever you put them, just be sure the roosts are higher than the nest boxes. If you're not gaining needed floor space by putting them up a few inches, there's really no benefit to it.

 

[Joey8765]

Nest boxes are 1 to 4 chickens so you only need about 3 or 4 at the most

If you're chicks are the broody type when they're older, you might want to put the nest boxes close to ground, so the chicks don't fall out, if they're not a broody breed and you don't plan on breeding them then they can be about a metre off the ground, with maybe a ladder up to them. Hope that helps!

 

[Beekissed]

It doesn't really matter, as long as you don't mount them higher than the roosts. I like mine off the floor a little ways, but it is really a matter of preference.

 

[patvetzal]

I always thought that high enough off the floor that the birds and cleaning tools could get under them, but lower than the roosts, and NOT directly under the roosts, unless they have a good sized top.....I'd rather not bend over any more than I have to to collect eggs.....