Chicken Laying Next Box Single STACKABLE

New Timber Layer Box for Chickens.

Dimensions: 30 x 29 x 44cm

Information about Chicken Nesting Boxes:

Chicken nesting boxes are essential for backyard poultry keepers in Australia, providing a safe and comfortable space for hens to lay their eggs. Here’s some key information about nesting boxes in Australia:

1. Purpose of Nesting Boxes

• Egg Laying: Hens prefer a quiet, dark, and secure place to lay eggs. Nesting boxes encourage this behavior and help keep eggs clean and intact.

• Protection: They protect eggs from being trampled or eaten by other chickens.

• Hygiene: Properly designed nesting boxes make it easier to collect eggs and maintain cleanliness in the coop.

2. Design and Size

• Size: Each nesting box should be approximately 30 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm (12 inches x 12 inches x 12 inches) to accommodate most chicken breeds.

• Material: Commonly made from wood, plastic, or metal. Wood is popular for its durability and insulation properties.

• Height: Place nesting boxes slightly off the ground, but not too high, as chickens prefer to roost higher than where they lay eggs.

• Number: Provide one nesting box for every 3-4 hens to prevent competition and stress.

3. Location

• Inside the Coop: Nesting boxes should be placed in a quiet, dark corner of the chicken coop to provide privacy.

• Accessibility: Ensure they are easily accessible for egg collection and cleaning.

4. Bedding

• Common Materials: Use straw, hay, wood shavings, or shredded paper as bedding. These materials are soft, absorbent, and easy to replace.

• Maintenance: Regularly clean and replace bedding to prevent pests and maintain hygiene.

5. Popular Types in Australia

• Wooden Nesting Boxes: Traditional and widely used, often DIY-friendly.

• Plastic Nesting Boxes: Easy to clean and resistant to mites.

• Rollaway Nesting Boxes: Designed to allow eggs to roll into a separate compartment, preventing hens from pecking or breaking them.

6. Where to Buy

• Local Farm Supply Stores: Many rural and urban areas in Australia have stores that sell poultry supplies.

• Online Retailers: Websites like Enfield Produce: Pet & Garden Supplies, and specialized poultry supply stores offer a wide range of nesting boxes.

• DIY Kits: Some retailers sell DIY kits for those who prefer to build their own.

7. DIY Nesting Boxes

• Many Australian poultry enthusiasts build their own nesting boxes using recycled materials like old crates, buckets, or timber.

• Ensure the design is predator-proof and provides adequate ventilation.

8. Tips for Success

• Training Hens: Place fake eggs or golf balls in the nesting boxes to encourage hens to use them.

• Cleanliness: Regularly clean the boxes to prevent mites, lice, and bacterial growth.

• Ventilation: Ensure the coop is well-ventilated to keep the nesting area dry and comfortable.

9. Regulations and Standards

• While there are no specific regulations for nesting boxes in backyard coops, it’s important to follow general animal welfare guidelines in Australia, such as providing adequate space, shelter, and cleanliness.

By providing well-designed nesting boxes, you can ensure your hens are happy, healthy, and productive, while also making egg collection easier for you.