How do I get my chickens to lay in their nesting boxes?

1. 87

   Robinposted 11 years ago

   How do I get my chickens to lay in their nesting boxes?
   
   My chickens have laid their first egg, but they didn't lay it in the nesting box.  They laid it in the outdoor portion of the coop.  Any ideas how I can get them to lay in the nesting box.  Right now I have hay in the nesting boxes with fake eggs, but they are pooping in the hay not laying eggs.  Thanks!
   
   

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2. 81

   chef-de-jourposted 11 years ago

   Keep the next boxes nice and try and clean. It sounds as if they're using the boxes, that's good. Are the boxes comfy and easily reachable? I guess so. Make double sure they aren't laying and then eating their eggs!! It does happen but you'd more than likely spot the mess!
   Sometimes hens are very choosy about laying.They'll want to be in a certain box, or might squabble over who gets into the box! Also make sure they get enough protein or they'll not lay eggs regularly of good quality.
   best of luck!

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   1. 87

      Robinposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks, chef!  I ordered more hay to go in the boxes; I don't think there was enough.  Your advice about it being comfy is good and I'll try to make it better.  I appreciate your time!

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   2. 67

      Gypsy Willowposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Try putting a real egg in the box. Have you thought of hanging up a cabbage for them to peck. They love greens. Good luck. It's probably because they are novices or maybe some one was in the box when they needed to use it.

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3. 98

   Theophanesposted 11 years ago

   I am guessing your hens are young? Sometimes the first-time layers take a few tries to get it right and even after that you might end up with an egg or two in an odd spot if one or more are squabbling over one box...
   
   Make sure to keep the box full of straw. Looks like you got heavy breeds and well.... when their eggs drop they better have a soft landing! (cracked eggs are generally eaten... and you don't want that because some of them get the idea to crack them on purpose if they taste that good!)
   
   Good luck!

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   1. 87

      Robinposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks!  It was the first egg that was laid, so I'm hoping you are right and they choose the nesting box next time!  I will lay more hay down for them.  I appreciate the response. 

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