Only using 2 of 4 nest boxes, should I remove them for space?

[JNorth]

Not sure if this should be here or in the coop design section but it kind of involves both...

We've noticed that our 8 hens only lay in two of the four nest boxes, at the very ends. Leaving the middle two boxes empty pretty much everyday. So with fall/winter coming (I'm in WNY, so it's coming), I was wondering if I should remove the two nest boxes to make more floor space for the girls, since they may be indoors a bit more during the cold? Will that kind of change disrupt their egg laying or stress them?

 

[Judy]

I think it's a good idea. You might try blocking off the two you'd like to remove if they are being used, even just blocking one off at first. Chickens do resist change -- but they also get used to it in time.

 

[BeulahBreezes]

I agree....I would block the unused box and see what happens...maybe they won't even notice!! lol! ~Beulah

 

[JNorth]

Thanks for the info! I think I will go slow, we went through a stressed hen period already, really don't want to do it again! I was thinking of taking out the nesting material for a few days, then covering and removing. We'll see how it goes. Thanks again!