Wooden nesting boxes.

[MsVexx]

Hey there!

I've got some cool wooden boxed that I've been thinking about sanding down and turning into nesting boxes.

Something like this:

Is there a safe paint or sealant I can put on it? Or should I just sand down the rough edges and leave it be?

Thanks!

 

[Spartan22]

I would just remove the 2 top boards and place a small perch on the 3rd to make it easier for the hen to get in and out without hurting their feet at same time reinforcing And strengthening the box. For me I love the natural color of the wood so I’ll leave it be unless you want to protect it with paint make sure it’s totally dried and air out to reduce the smell before you place it in.

 

[aart]

Might not even need to sand it.
Keep in mind that the top edges of open topped nests often become perches/roosts and get pooped in.

 

[MsVexx]

Hmm, I definitely planned on adding perches, as you suggested. Never thought about completely removing the top 2 boards though. I've also been thinking about turning the boxes sideways so I have a little more room to create a roll-out system for the eggs, but I've got to think about that a bit more.

 

[purslanegarden]

You can use the wood box as an outside container, but still put in a plastic container that fits. The reason is that you'll want some straw/hay/nesting material that won't fall out of the bottom or side cracks in the box.

So from the outside, you still see your aesthetically pleasing wood frame. From the inside under all that nesting material, you get a plastic container that can be washed or replaced as needed.

 

[MsVexx]

Thanks for the advice! I ended up cutting off the front top two slats and I used some rubber tub lining that I had to create a rounded bottom, then covered that with bedding. My timing was perfect because I got my very first egg the next day!