Providing your hens with the right nesting boxes is the secret to easier egg collection and a happier flock. While chickens will lay eggs anywhere they feel safe, creating a designated spot encourages them to lay in one clean, secure location. This protects eggs from predators, prevents them from being stepped on, and saves you from daily egg hunts.
How Many and What Size?
A good rule of thumb is to provide one nesting box for every 4-5 hens. Even if they all decide to share one favorite box, having enough options prevents crowding. For standard breeds like Buff Orpingtons, a 14×14 inch box works well. Smaller bantam breeds will be comfortable in a 12×12 inch space. The goal is to make it cozy enough for one hen to feel secure but not so large that two try to squeeze in.
Placement and Bedding
Place your nesting boxes in a quiet, low-traffic area of the coop. To prevent hens from sleeping (and pooping) in them, always position the boxes lower than their roosting bars. Raising them about 18 inches off the floor also makes egg gathering easier on your back. Fill the boxes with clean, comfortable bedding like pine shavings or straw to keep the eggs clean and give your hens a soft spot to lay.
A well-planned nesting area simplifies your routine and promotes a healthy environment for your flock. Stop by Cherokee Feed & Seed for poultry feed, supplies bedding, and expert advice!
Reference: Ultimate Guide to Chicken Nesting Boxes
