when to open nesting box

[reesadz]

I am new to chicken raising - have had our girls for almst 2 weeks now - two 11 week old Silver Laced Wyandottes and one 10 week old East Egger. We have closed off the nesting box because they were hanging out in there and pooping. How do I know when to open it back up?

Thanks!

 

[Cheep]

They're a little young, & new to you, to start laying, but I'd open up the nests so they know where to go - & put in a plastic egg!

 

[reesadz]

Thanks - so I should put in bedding and a plastic egg in each nest box (it's divided into 2)?

 

[Den in Penn]

You can wait till they are about nearer the point of lay. Say seventeen weeks. Or you are sure they are roosting on the perches.