Will my chickens lay in their coop?

[chixcoop]

I just got my first 2 eggs today

They were layed in the coop on the ground. I had put 5 gal buckets in there so they could lay, but I have not seen them be in there at all and the eggs were layed on the side, behind the egg box. Also they are making little nesting areas in the dirt when we free range them during the day. Could they lay here if they dont like the coop? I want to make nesting boxes, but where do I get straw from. IS IT TOO LATE TO HAVE THEM LAY IN THE COOP?

 

[Mr Beaks]

Congratulations on your 1st eggs! I have heard of others using 5 gallon buckets for nesting boxes. Just be sure to provide some bedding for them such as shavings or straw (found at feed/farm stores and Tractor Supply) My chickens didn't lay in their boxes either until I placed a dummy egg (also found at the feed store) in a couple of the boxes. I've heard some folks use golf balls instead. Either way, you are showing them where the eggs go and I'm pretty sure your girls will take the hint . As far as the nests in the dirt...I'm pretty sure those are from them taking dust baths . It keeps them cool and helps keep them lice and mite free. Good luck! :cd

 

[chixcoop]

Congratulations on your 1st eggs! I have heard of others using 5 gallon buckets for nesting boxes. Just be sure to provide some bedding for them such as shavings or straw (found at feed/farm stores and Tractor Supply) My chickens didn't lay in their boxes either until I placed a dummy egg (also found at the feed store) in a couple of the boxes. I've heard some folks use golf balls instead. Either way, you are showing them where the eggs go and I'm pretty sure your girls will take the hint

. As far as the nests in the dirt...I'm pretty sure those are from them taking dust baths

. It keeps them cool and helps keep them lice and mite free. Good luck!

Thanks, will do.