Perch or shelf in front of the nest box?

[Rayne17]

We are almost done with our new coop. I am not sure if we should put a perch or shelf directly in front of the nest boxes. You know the thing they need to jump up to, and then get in the nest box. What do your chickens like in front of there nest boxes? Our 4 nest boxes are 18 inches off the ground to the bottom of the box. They are 12 x 12 x 16 deep. If you have pictures of your nest boxes i would love to see them.
Thanks
Rayne

 

[dragon86]

 

[calista]

We've always used a "runway" (lumber shelf) for multiple nest boxes, as the ladies seem to like strolling past each one before making their selection.

Then, of course, they all want to pile into one of them together to lay, but that's another thread...

 

[Rayne17]

Thank you dragon86 and calista
I like your idea of a runway. I'll tell hubby i want my girls to have there very own runway.
Rayne



Quote:

 

[gryeyes]

 

[newchicksnducks]

We have a little perch for them to land on. Everyone's design is slightly different.

Here's a side view