What to do for nesting boxes

[dickkenschickens]

Hi All,

The coop is just about finished. I have 6 chicks, 1 month old today and still inside my house.

I need to build some nesting boxes. How high from the floor should they be? Is 2 enough? I was thinking 12 x 14 x 14". Any other suggestions would be welcome.

Also, how high should the roost be? I was told a 2 x 4 w/ the flat side up is better than a round dowel.

Thanks
dickkenschickens
1st time chick owner

 

[Bleenie]

All my boxes are 12"x12" and work great. for 6 chickens i would have at least 3, just in case someone goes broody, but also a lot of chickens will pick a favorite box. you can make them as high off the floor as you like BUT the roost should be higher. round roosts are better, helps avoid slivers or sores...that could eventually lead to bumblefoot.

 

[scooter147]

My nest boxes are 30 inches above the floor, this is more for my sake so I don't have to bend over to collect eggs. I say 24 to 30 inches is fine.
The size you mention should work but make sure you make the top at a steep angle to prevent roosting on them.
As far as the roost, the 2x4 flat side up is perfect in my opinion and starting at 3 feet above the ground has always worked very well for me. My over weight they eat too much black austrolops don't have a problem jumping/flying that high.

 

[Omran]

Quote:
I agree with you 100% and I would liketo say

To both of you.

 

[Ridgerunner]

This thread shows many ideas on nesting boxes. I think you will find there are a tremendous number of different ideas on nesting boxes. I do recommend you use something with a top to it to reduce potential problems of them roosting over them.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=173767

Many people put theirs on the floor. Some put them fairly high so they don't have to bend to gather eggs. The usual recommendation is to put them 18 to 24 inches above the floor so they don't get as dirty. Mine are about 12"up for what that is worth.

For 6 hens, 2 is enough. I'd recommend a minimum size of 12" x 12". Mine are 16" x 16" x 12" high. Often the hens like to lay together and I like to give them some extra room.

The roost should be clearly higher than the nesting boxes, usually 12" higher is enough. Chickens tend to roost on the highest place they can get. You don't want them roosting in the nesting boxes because they poop a lot when they sleep and you don't want to have poopy nests. Obviously, that gives you dirty eggs.

In colder climates, many people use a 2x4 with the flat side up. The theory is that they sleep on their feet, thus keeping them warm. In warmer climates, the 2x4 with the thin side up is fine. The corners should be rounded as it is more comfortable for them.

I used tree branches. Mine tend to roost on the thicker parts of the branches, but that may be because of the position relative to the window, any nighttime breezes, or something else. I'm not sure. If you use tree branches, you should remove the bark as the bark gives roost mites a good place to hide. I'd suggest at least 1=1/2" diameter minimum size. And use wood, not plastic or metal. Plastic and metal are too slick plus conduct heat to well. They tend to get more frostbite on plastic or metal.