Roost and nesting box questions

[MischickenNY]

It depends on the breed. I like poop boards under my roosts so they are set to 34" off the ground and the roosts sit 13" over the boards. The lighter body birds usually fly up to the board then hop up on the roost. Heavier birds prefer to take the ramp.

Do you have any pictures?

 

[Axishunter712]

Looks like you are using a section of fence rail, I think diameter is too small and it is slick ( too hard for them to stay on) I prefer taking 2x4s and ripping them to about 2-1/4 inches wide and rounding the edges over to make more comfortable for the birds.

 

[aart]

Do you have any pictures?

Click the 'My Coop' link under her avatar.
Mine too, we have very similar setups.

 

[Axishunter712]

 

[rosemarythyme]

Thank you, I had no idea. I have several 2x4s available. How high off the ground?

For Silkies, I'd try having one fairly very low - they may use it, they may ignore it and just sit on the ground. For other breeds, you can go almost as low or high as you want, just make sure they have enough landing space in front of the roosts to safely land, and keep roosts higher than nests to encourage birds to use them. If you ladder the roosts, have at least 12" between each bar so there isn't crowding in between bars.

 

[MischickenNY]

For Silkies, I'd try having one fairly very low - they may use it, they may ignore it and just sit on the ground. For other breeds, you can go almost as low or high as you want, just make sure they have enough landing space in front of the roosts to safely land, and keep roosts higher than nests to encourage birds to use them. If you ladder the roosts, have at least 12" between each bar so there isn't crowding in between bars.

I have one on ground level that I put in when I started the Post, I’m proud to announce they started using it (most of the chickens). I have plans to do one about 32 inches high, we’ll see how this goes. My chicken coop was made by a previous family member about 15 years ago so I’m thinking of renovating the inside a little. Switching up the nesting boxes, adding a few roosts and a poop catcher thing.

 

[MischickenNY]

Caught some pictures of roosting. The floor level seems to be a favorite amongst the flock. The EE are young but made they’re way up there, I will have to block off the nesting box.