Plans for Nesting Boxes

[zekii]

Hello,
We are looking for some plans for indoor nesting boxes for our new coop, not accessible from the outside.
6 boxes, 3 over 3

Send me any pictures or plans you may have....
thanks very much !!!

Happy New Year !!

 

[Judy]

I looked at your BYC page. First, you need to add a bunch more ventilation to what you've built so far; you will need it both for summer and winter. You will probably not need more than 3 or 4 nests, and not until fall if you're going to start with chicks.

I'd urge you to read this first:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=1642-VENTILATION

 

[chicks4kids]

These nest boxes are accesible from the coop area as well as the dry storage area. They're just 4 over 4 though.

 

[zekii]

Quote:
Very nice basic design ... Does anyone line their nest boxes with linoleum/vinyl flooring or use plastic tubs ?

 

[Hookem]

I use 5 gallon buckets and they are working great and very easy to clean. just a thought. see pics.


https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=74644-the-chicken-ranch

 

[Judy]

Quote:
If you want something easy to clean, don't build nest boxes at all, use kitty litter boxes or plastic bins or 5 gallon buckets on their side (cut a bunch of the lid away and put it back to hold the nesting material in.) You can buy plastic bins for a few bucks at WalMart or the like, with an open top; I have one and it is a great broody/mama with babies nest, plus movable, which is great for broodies. Some hens like a more hidden nest and some prefer the open top style. You can also pick up a couple of cardboard boxes and try them, on their side or with the top open, or old dresser drawers (makes a great communal nest.) Many people have stuff lying around to make a variety of styles; you can see what your birds like best. I have 4 different kinds in my coop and they never lay eggs on the floor -- I suspect because there are some choices.

I've never spent money on a nest box -- there has always been something lying around.

 

[zekii]

We need to mount these 6 boxes on the wall, the 5 gallon buckets, or the plastic bins would work if we just put up two shelfs to hold them. Couple of good suggestions ..

 

[txhomegrown]

I am curious as to how many nest boxes I will need. What is the ration of hens per nest box? This will help to figure out what type of boxes to use.

 

[Muscovies]

Nice nest boxes

 

[zekii]

Quote:
I believe I read that 5 laying hens to one nest box .... unless of course you have some hens you are going to let brood