What is a good chicken to nesting box ratio?

[ThenewRoosterintown]

Is a nesting box need for every chicken or do they take turns using the nesting boxes? or do I need a nesting box for every chicken?

 

[Sunny-Side Up]

No, you don't need a nesting box for every chicken. I've heard about 3 or 4 chickens per nesting box. And no matter how many nesting boxes you have, I've noticed that they all prefer to lay in the same one, even if that means squishing with another hen.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Hi, welcome to BYC!

3 birds to 1 box is a good ratio. Though I have discovered no matter how many boxes I provide they have their favorites and some of my boxes never get used. 1 box per bird would be a waste.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

No, you don't need a nesting box for every chicken. I've heard about 3 or 4 chickens per nesting box. And no matter how many nesting boxes you have, I've noticed that they all prefer to lay in the same one, even if that means squishing with another hen.

That is true, which is why it's important to not make the boxes too big. If only one girl can fit (12x12), then you won't have as much issue with broken eggs.

 

[ThenewRoosterintown]

Hi, welcome to BYC!

3 birds to 1 box is a good ratio. Though I have discovered no matter how many boxes I provide they have their favorites and some of my boxes never get used. 1 box per bird would be a waste.

thank you. so 30 chickens = 10 boxes?

 

[EggSighted4Life]

That's EXACTLY what I have.

 

[aart]

I have 4 nests for 12 layers.
14 x 14 x 16" tall.
They rarely pile into/share a nest...
.....but I have fake eggs in every nest, helps 'spread the love'