When should I set up my nesting boxes? Start offering oyster shell?

[Meg Gerstenfeld]

My pullets are between 15-16 weeks old. I read somewhere that you shouldn't add any padding/hay/hemp etc to nesting boxes initially to keep the chicks from deciding that it's a good place to hang out and poo. And for the most part, they don't hang out in them, so that seems to be working.

My Gold Star and RIR pullets seem to be getting redder in the face and in the comb even though they're still a few weeks (total guess) away from maturity. Should I put the nesting pads and some hemp in the nesting boxes now just in case I have an early girl or should I wait until one lays an egg in a random spot and then set them up? I have the same question about oyster shell, should I set that out now or wait a few more weeks? Chicken pic for tax.

 

[FrostRanger]

I always have my nest box ready and haven't had any issues with birds just hanging out and getting poop in there. With my previous batch I even had their food and water in the nest box at night for a while 'cause this was before the stray cats started hanging around and I was worried about rodents. Just put some fake eggs in there and they'll get the idea when the time comes. I'd start offering oyster shells now, birds that need it will take what they need and those that don't will ignore it

 

[Meg Gerstenfeld]

I always have my nest box ready and haven't had any issues with birds just hanging out and getting poop in there. With my previous batch I even had their food and water in the nest box at night for a while 'cause this was before the stray cats started hanging around and I was worried about rodents. Just put some fake eggs in there and they'll get the idea when the time comes. I'd start offering oyster shells now, birds that need it will take what they need and those that don't will ignore it

Thanks!

 

[SandyRiverChick]

Now is good. They probably won't lay for a few more weeks but it's like you said, a good idea to get them used to the boxes. They will be curious and go in and out for a bit before laying. Use golf balls or whatever you have (I use painted rocks.) Mine are 16 weeks and they keep investigating boxes and scratching around. They also have access to oyster shells as they are fully integrated with my older ladies. Have fun!!!

 

[Meg Gerstenfeld]

Now is good. They probably won't lay for a few more weeks but it's like you said, a good idea to get them used to the boxes. They will be curious and go in and out for a bit before laying. Use golf balls or whatever you have (I use painted rocks.) Mine are 16 weeks and they keep investigating boxes and scratching around. They also have access to oyster shells as they are fully integrated with my older ladies. Have fun!!!

Thanks! We have a ton of old golf balls. That's what we'll use.

 

[Auntiejessi3]

Thanks! We have a ton of old golf balls. That's what we'll use.

Absolutely! My husband has sacrificed many practice balls for my chickening cause, lol