Adding nesting boxes to the outside of your chicken coop is a practical and space-saving solution for both you and your feathered friends. It simplifies egg collection and makes it easier to maintain a clean and comfortable coop interior.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of building nesting boxes on the outside of your coop, offering valuable insights and step-by-step instructions on how to build nesting boxes on outside of coop.
We’ll discuss the choice of materials, design considerations, and the necessary tools to complete this project successfully. Whether you’re an experienced poultry keeper or just starting out, understanding how to construct external nesting boxes will help streamline your chicken-keeping routine and ensure a more convenient and productive experience for both you and your flock.
Importance of Nesting Boxes in a Chicken Coop
Nesting boxes are an essential feature of a chicken coop. They provide a safe and comfortable space for chickens to lay their eggs, which is one of the main reasons for keeping backyard chickens. Nesting boxes also serve as a separate, designated area for egg collection, making it easier for chicken owners to gather fresh eggs without disturbing or stressing out their flock.
In addition to practical purposes, nesting boxes also play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of your chickens. By providing a clean, comfortable, and private area for egg-laying, you can reduce the risk of cracked or damaged eggs, which can attract pests and predators.
Moreover, resting boxes offer a sense of security to chickens as they mimic natural environments where hens would lay their eggs in hidden, sheltered spaces. This can help reduce stress and encourage natural egg-laying behavior.
Furthermore, nesting boxes can also help with flock management. By having designated areas for laying eggs, you can easily monitor the number of eggs being laid by each hen and identify any potential health or reproductive issues.
Overall, the importance of nesting boxes in a chicken coop cannot be overstated. They provide numerous benefits for both chickens and chicken owners, making them an essential feature to include in your coop design. In the following sections, we will discuss how to build nesting boxes on the outside of a coop, so you can ensure your flock has a safe and comfortable place to lay their eggs. So let’s dive in!
10 Methods How to Build Nesting Boxes on outside of Coop
1. Choose the Right Materials
When building nesting boxes, it is important to choose materials that are durable and weatherproof. Cedar is a great option as it is naturally resistant to rot and insects. Other materials, such as plywood or pressure-treated lumber, can also be used. Be sure to use screws instead of nails when assembling the boxes, as they will provide a more secure connection.
2. Measure Twice, Cut Once
Before cutting any pieces of wood, be sure to measure twice and cut once. This will help ensure that all of the pieces fit together properly and reduce the chances of making mistakes. Also, be sure to use a hand saw with a blade designed for cutting wood so that you get a clean cut without splintering the wood.
3. Pre-Drill Holes
To make assembly easier, pre-drill holes in all of the pieces before attaching them together. This will help ensure that all of the screws are driven straight and will prevent any splitting or cracking of the wood due to overdriving screws.
4. Use Weatherproof Adhesives
To further seal out moisture from entering the nesting boxes, use weatherproof adhesives along with screws or nails when attaching pieces together. This will help keep water from entering through small gaps between boards and will also provide additional strength to joints that may otherwise become weak over time due to moisture exposure.
5. Add Insulation
Adding insulation inside the nesting boxes can help keep them warm during cold winter months and cool during hot summer days. Insulation can also help reduce noise coming from inside the coop which can disturb sleeping chickens at night time or attract predators looking for an easy meal!
6. Install Ventilation Holes
Ventilation holes should be installed in each nesting box to allow fresh air to flow into them while still keeping out drafts or other elements such as dust, dirt, and pests from entering through these openings. The size of these holes should be large enough for airflow but not large enough for pests or other animals to enter through them easily!
7. Paint Nesting Boxes
Painting your nesting boxes is an optional step but it can add an extra layer of protection against moisture if desired by using waterproof paint on both sides of each box before installation on your coop’s exterior walls! Additionally, painting your boxes can add some aesthetic appeal if desired as well!
8. Install Nesting Boxes at Proper Height
Installing your nesting boxes at the proper height is very important for allowing chickens easy access into their nests without having to jump too high or strain themselves too much while entering/exiting their nests each day! Generally speaking, installing them about 18 inches off ground level should work well for most breeds!
9. Provide Access Ramp for Chickens
A ramp leading up to each nest box should also be provided so that chickens don’t have difficulty getting into their nests each day! The ramp should have good traction so that chickens don’t slip while walking up it each day, and it should also have some kind of guard rail around its edges if possible, just in case one accidentally falls off while climbing up/down it!
10. Clean Nesting Boxes Regularly
Finally, regular cleaning & maintenance of your nesting boxes is essential in order to maintain proper hygiene & health standards within your coop environment! Make sure you remove any old bedding material, eggs, & other debris regularly & replace them with fresh bedding material every few weeks! Additionally, make sure you disinfect & sanitize your nesting boxes with approved poultry cleaner every few months as well!
Things to Consider When Building Nesting Boxes on outside of Coop
Building nesting boxes on the outside of a chicken coop is a great way to save space and provide easy access for collecting eggs. However, it’s important to consider certain factors before building your own nesting boxes.
Location and Placement
The first thing to consider when building outside nesting boxes is the location and placement. It’s best to choose a spot that is sheltered from harsh weather conditions, such as rain and wind. Additionally, make sure the boxes are placed in a well-lit area for easy access and cleaning.
Size and Design
The size of your nesting boxes will depend on the size of your chicken coop and the number of chickens you have. Generally, each chicken should have 1 square foot of space in the nesting box. As for the design, it’s important to choose a box that is easy to clean and has good ventilation.
Material
When building nesting boxes on the outside of your coop, it’s important to use durable and weather-resistant materials. Wood is a popular choice as it provides insulation and can be easily painted or stained. However, make sure to use untreated wood to avoid any harmful chemicals coming into contact with your chickens.
Accessibility
One of the main reasons for building outside nesting boxes is to make egg collection easier. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the boxes are easily accessible for both you and your chickens. Consider adding a ramp or ladder for your chickens to enter the boxes and make sure they are at a comfortable height for you to reach.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning and maintenance is crucial for the health of your chickens and the quality of their eggs. Make sure the nesting boxes are easy to clean by using materials that can be easily wiped or hosed down. Additionally, consider adding a removable bottom or tray for easier waste removal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Nesting Boxes
Building nesting boxes is an essential part of owning chickens. As a chicken owner, it’s important to provide your feathered friends with a comfortable and safe place to lay their eggs. While building nesting boxes may seem like a simple task, there are some common mistakes that people make which can impact the effectiveness and functionality of the boxes.
In this guide, we’ll go over some of the most common mistakes to avoid when building nesting boxes for your chickens.
Not Enough Space
One of the biggest mistakes that people make when building nesting boxes is not providing enough space. Chickens need enough room to comfortably enter and exit the boxes, as well as enough space inside to turn around and get comfortable. If the nesting boxes are too small, chickens may feel cramped and stressed when laying their eggs, resulting in lower egg production.
Placing Boxes Too High
Another common mistake is placing the nesting boxes too high off the ground. While it may seem like a good idea to keep the nests out of reach from predators, placing them too high can make it difficult for chickens to access them. This can result in chickens choosing to lay their eggs elsewhere, leading to a messy and scattered egg-laying process.
Not Enough Ventilation
Ventilation is crucial for keeping the nesting boxes clean and free from moisture. Without proper ventilation, the boxes can become damp and moldy, making them an unsuitable place for chickens to lay their eggs. Make sure to include some ventilation holes or vents in your nesting box design to keep them dry and comfortable for your chickens.
Inadequate Lighting
Chickens need natural light to lay their eggs successfully. If the nesting boxes are placed in a dark or poorly lit area, chickens may have trouble locating the boxes and laying their eggs inside. Make sure to place the boxes in an area that receives plenty of natural light to encourage your chickens to lay their eggs in the designated boxes.
Not Cleaning Them Regularly
Lastly, one of the most common mistakes that people make when building nesting boxes is not cleaning them regularly. Neglecting to clean the boxes can lead to a build-up of dirt, dust, and droppings, making it an unsanitary environment for your chickens. Make sure to clean the boxes at least once a week to keep them clean and free from any potential health hazards.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your nesting boxes are functional, comfortable, and safe for your chickens to use. With proper care and maintenance, your nesting boxes will provide a cozy and secure spot for your feathered friends to lay their eggs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, building nesting boxes on the outside of your coop is a great way to open up more space for your birds and create an enjoyable outdoor experience. With some research and planning, you can build sturdy, safe, and secure nesting boxes that will last for years.
Being able to provide comfort and shelter for your chickens is essential— happy chickens lay more eggs. So cut the clutter in the coop, add a little style to the outside of it, and make sure there’s plenty of homey amenities for your birds!
Start today by researching what nesting box designs are right for you, how many you’ll need depending on the size of your flock, and securing the necessary supplies – this guide has shown you how to build nesting boxes on outside of coop with ease.
Let us know about your experience or any modifications you may have made down in the comments section!
