Quarantine for laying hens

BullChick

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I found a couple nearby with a bunch of hens for sale. I have a double rabbit hutch that can house four adults going by the 4 square foot/bird rule. My questions are; First, do I need to figure out a nest box, or will they be willing to use one of the "houses" that are built in for the rabbits (they can't fit through the hole, but the lid lifts, and I am pretty sure they can fit in there)?
My second question is will they be okay not going outside for a whole month? I will do my best to rig up a run for them, but I wasn't planning on more chickens yet (watch what you ask for. You just might get it!) so I am lucky the brooder is a good size.
Third question. Will they feel cramped with only four sq feet each during the quarantine?
 
1. If they can fit in the house they can use it for a nest box.
2. For the time of quarantine they do not need to go outside, even with a run. If you free range your flock, a run may make it to easy for them to get to close.
3. It will be cramped, but they will survive it. Distractions will help.
 
Might use the time they are quarantined to firm up the plans for the integration.
 
Well, I brought them home around ten, and between 1:30 and 3:00 someone laid an egg! Woo hoo! My first egg. Tomorrow morning I will eat my first brown egg (yeah, I am told there is no difference. But I REFUSED to try brown eggs until recently) AND my first fresh egg (again, new thought for me)!!!
They seem happy so far. Pretty quiet. They are sloppy eaters (the guy fed them sparingly, and twelve birds were sharing a small feeder). I am pretty sure they will get out of that habit since I will be sure they always have food.
 

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