Finding the Right Chicken Nesting Boxes
Find the right nest box for your chickens to lay comfortably! From single mounted to roll out, browse our wide variety of nest boxes today!
Hens lay eggs, providing a much-needed and nutritious food source. This is why egg-gathering practices have improved over the years, and chicken keepers have to keep up.
We understand that your chicken wants comfort and privacy while nesting. This is why we offer an array of nests for your egg-producing hens.
What to Look for in a Nest Box
Provide your flock with the ideal nesting box. Our selection offers boxes that can cater to one to 10 hens with separators between each bird’s nest so each hen maintains her privacy. When shopping for a nesting box, look for the following important features:
- Drain holes in the box’s bottom
- Easy cleaning and monitoring access
- Interior grooves on the interior wall beneath the entry help tiny fledglings move about more easily.
- Conversion options from a roll out to a regular nest box.
Tips for Creating the Ideal Chicken Nesting Box
A nest box should be comfortable and clean and provide privacy and security. When looking for a nesting box, consider the following:
- It should be around 12 inches square for your hens to move around and lay their eggs.
Size
- Settle for a material that’s easy to clean and disinfect, like wood, plastic, or metal.
Material
- Ample space to place soft materials such as straw and hay to make the nests inviting.
Bedding
- Ensure the nest box is easily accessible but not too low for other chickens to roost on top of them.
Accessibility
A comfortable and secure nest box design encourages egg laying and keeps them healthy and happy.
The Best Nesting Box Designs
We offer different nest box designs and styles, but the best one for your flock will depend on your needs and preferences:
- The Cozy nest is an excellent example. It has curtains to provide a safe and dark place for nesting.
Single-compartment nesting box
- Like the Economic ten-hole front roll-out nest. It has multiple compartments with dividers. Chicken may access them from the front or top.
Multi-compartment nesting box
- The nest has a sloping floor allowing eggs to roll away from the hen and into the egg tray or collection area. This prevents the eggs from getting dirty or damaged. The roll out nesting box design is easy to clean and maintain.
Roll-out nesting box
- Our plastic single-mounted nesting box is a great alternative to the metal nest box. The plastic surface is easy to keep clean and does not get as cold as metal.
Single-mounted nesting box
How Many Nests Are Needed for 10 Chickens?
A general rule of thumb, provide one nest box for every four to five hens. So, you would need two to three nests for ten chickens.
However, providing extra nesting boxes for your coop is a good idea to ensure your hens have plenty of space. The extra space helps prevent overcrowding and competition.
Where Is the Best Place for a Chicken Nesting Box?
A chicken nest box should be away from the main roosting area. Ideally, the nest box should be in a corner or against a wall for additional bird privacy.
Also, consider the lighting conditions in the nest. Hens prefer nesting in a dimly lit environment, so if possible, add a cover over the nest box to reduce light.
How High Should a Chicken Nesting Box Be?
The height of a chicken coop or nesting box depends on the size and breed of your chickens. However, a nest box should be about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) above the ground.
This height suits most standard breeds, but you may need to adjust the height for larger or smaller birds. Add a ramp or step if your chickens have difficulty accessing the nesting box.
When choosing a design, consider the size and needs of your flock, as well as your preferences and resources.
Do Chickens Prefer Raised Nests?
Every chicken is different and may have their nesting preferences. Some chickens may feel more comfortable laying eggs on the ground, while others may prefer a communal nest box or a different type of design.
Raised chicken nest boxes can keep the eggs cleaner and reduce the risk of predators or rodents accessing the eggs. Additionally, raised boxes can be easier to access when collecting produce.
What to Use as Fill in Your Nesting Boxes?
The most common materials used to fill chicken nest boxes are straw, hay, and wood shavings. These materials are absorbent, help keep the eggs clean, and provide a comfortable surface for the eggs to be laid on.
The type of material you use in your nests will depend on your preference and what’s available and affordable in your area. Whatever you choose, keep the box clean. Replace the bedding regularly to keep your chicken healthy and comfortable, and ensure they can provide insulation.
Stromberg’s Chickens: Your One-Stop Store For Your Poultry Supplies
Choose your nest boxes from Stromberg’s Chicken's extensive inventory. We offer a variety of nest box sizes and designs to suit individuals raising backyard chickens or large nest box designs for corporate farms.
Call us today at 1-800-720-1134 for any inquiries about nests, pluckers, and more. We offer free shipping for most orders above $150.