Chicken Nest Boxes Explained
A chicken nest box, while a fairly simple thing should still be fit for the purpose. This is where some confusion sets in. Often the searcher means a laying box. Although not really a great difference we need to ensure that a nesting box is more comfortable as it will be used on a much more permanent basis. The hen will spend a considerable amount of time sitting on her eggs so we need to ensure it is nice and comfortable for her. How do we do this?
Chickens will need some basic comfort if they are to be sitting for some time. I always prefer to use sawdust as as nice comfortable bedding. It is very cheap to purchase and does the job extremely well. It is soft and creates a very nice bed for the bird. Alternatives are such things as shredded paper and hay or straw although these latter two can be a bit rough.
We also need to ensure that we keep the hen out of any draught so that it stays comfortable and relatively warm. This is a simple piece of advice but is often overlooked. Simply ensure the box is nowhere near a draughty window or door and you should be fine.
Always ensure your chicken nest boxes are easy to clean. This is why I always prefer plastic or metal over wood as it is simply much easier to keep clean and is no more expensive to purchase. These few simple tips will ensure that you have a happy bird and a nice environment for the hens.
Chicken nesting boxes can be costly. For lots of great ideas about chicken nest boxes visit chicken nesting for more information.
