Pro and cons of outside or inside access to nesting boxes???

[Horizon Structures]

I'll echo a lot of what others have said. You'll definitely want to check the inside of the coop pretty frequently. But an outside door for the nest boxes can be convenient. For example, you might want to go grab eggs in the morning in your work clothes, or you don't want to have to worry so much about allowing a younger child to collect the eggs.

I wouldn't worry too much about either predators or cold weather with regards to the nest box door. Just plan carefully, and if it manages to freeze shut (I kind of doubt it would) or snow covers it just go in from inside!

Good luck!
~ Nicole

 

[poconoadoptionfamily]

Hi Everyone,
I've decided to have indoor nest boxes if possible. I want to be able to see the coop and birds and have them protected as much as possible from predators. Thanks to everyone for the advice and input. Denise

 

[~*Sweet Cheeks*~]

That is GREAT! Thank you for the update. Be sure to share pictures.

Just think how excited your son is going to be when you start getting eggs. I still get excited to see how many I'm going to get, what colors, and what nest boxes are the daily favorite.

 

[TigerLilly]

I think I'm also in favor of walk-in/inside nest boxes and also for most of the same reasons. I do like to visit with my hens & just watch them while I'm stooped down to their level. I like being able to see every nook & cranny of where they are staying so I can make sure there are no problems whether it's sick ones or varmints of any kind trying/making their way in. I can tell you who likes to lay where when she wants to be left alone & which ones are nesting buddies.
I love the cuteness of all the small coops with the convenience of flip top nest box lids, but I WANT the biggest walk-in coop I can get away with so I can spend more time with more girls!
I am going to start building my own coop (using ideas from this forum), so pictures will definitely follow!