Pros and Cons for Box In/Out of Coop

[sierranomad]

It seems that most everyone has their laying boxes in their coops, though I've seen some pictures/video where the boxes were out of the coop.

Due to exremely hot summers and trying to see if I can keep from running my fan 24 hours a day in the coop, I'm considering having my next boxes out of the coop in a sheltered area. Just wondering what the pros and cons are for having the box in/out of the coop?

Jon

 

[hellokittyfive]

Hi Jon,

I would think the pro would be more room in the coop. Plus they like a dark place to lay. I currently have one box inside and am going to attach one to the outside of my coop.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Are you talking about a space separate from the coop or just attached to the side of the coop?

I don't think one in another location is a good idea since the bulk of eggs come in the morning, they need to lay an egg likely before you can go open the door.

I like an external door for access to the box so I don't have to go inside to collect eggs. An external nest saves coop floor space.

 

[Sonya9]

Away from the coop is not a good idea at all IMO. Hens will still lay in the coop in a sheltered corner where they feel safe, then you might have some laying outside in the boxes, as well as in other areas. You don't want to have to hunt for eggs, especially since the ones you find in strange places may be old and not safe for eating anymore.

You may also confuse the birds and make them less likely to go in their coop at night. If it is about convenience just put flaps outside the coop so you can gather the eggs without going inside if that is a concern.

 

[jetdog]

External boxes or external access is great for not bringing in those "special treats" in the house from your shoes.

 

[21hens-incharge]

I prefer mine in the coop. I had external boxes on the sides of 2 of my old coops and those were the only hens to get mites while the other 3 coops checked clean.
To avoid bringing special treats into the house on my shoes and to maintain biosecurity I keep a pair of shoes just for coop use and they are never worn into the house. (I have a patio room and change shoes there) I use the easily slipped on kind.

 

[sierranomad]

O.K. thanks for the input. Looks like I will keep the nest box inside, and just have the fan running 24\7.

Jon