How to Train Chickens to Use Nesting Boxes (Pro Tips)

To train chickens to use a nesting box, place them inside the box regularly and reward them with treats to encourage nesting behavior.

Training chickens to use nesting boxes saves time, prevents egg loss, and keeps your coop organized. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn pullets or free-range hens that lay in hidden spots, these proven methods will help establish proper laying habits.

Chickens comfortably using a nesting box

Why Chickens Avoid Nesting Boxes

Before training your flock, understand why they’re avoiding designated nesting areas:

  • Poor location – Boxes placed in high-traffic or bright areas feel unsafe
  • Dirty conditions – Soiled bedding or broken eggs deter hens
  • Insufficient numbers – The recommended ratio is one box per 4-5 hens
  • Uncomfortable bedding – Hard surfaces or thin padding discourage use
  • Predator stress – Vulnerable boxes lead to alternative laying spots

The Psychology of Chicken Nesting

Chickens instinctively seek secluded, dark spaces that mimic wild nesting sites. A study by the University of Bristol found hens prefer enclosures with 60-70% light reduction for egg laying.

Train chickens for nesting box use effectively

Step-by-Step Training Methods

1. The Fake Egg Technique

Place ceramic or wooden dummy eggs in each nesting box. This:

  1. Triggers maternal instincts to lay with the “clutch”
  2. Provides visual cues for young pullets
  3. Maintains attraction during low-laying periods

Pro tip: Golf balls work in a pinch but may roll. Secure them with bedding.

2. Strategic Confinement

Keep hens in the coop until midday (when most lay):

Breed Peak Laying Time
Rhode Island Reds 9-11 AM
Leghorns 7-9 AM
Orpingtons 10 AM-Noon

This method pairs well with coop training techniques for stubborn birds.

3. Environmental Adjustments

Light Control

Install curtains or adjust coop lighting to create dim nesting areas. Hens prefer 5-10 lux illumination for laying (about twilight brightness).

Bedding Upgrades

Layer 4-6 inches of:

  • Pine shavings (most absorbent)
  • Straw (best insulation)
  • Hemp bedding (naturally pest-resistant)

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Hens Sleeping in Nesting Boxes

This leads to dirty boxes and broken eggs. Solutions:

  • Install roosts higher than nesting boxes
  • Block boxes overnight with boards
  • Add more roosting space (8-10″ per bird)

Egg Eating Behavior

According to University of Minnesota Extension, this habit starts when:

  1. Hens discover broken eggs taste good
  2. Nutritional deficiencies occur
  3. Boredom sets in

Break the cycle by:

  • Collecting eggs 2-3 times daily
  • Using rollaway nesting boxes
  • Providing calcium supplements

Advanced Training for Problem Layers

The “Catch and Place” Method

When you spot a hen preparing to lay (pacing, squatting):

  1. Gently pick her up
  2. Place in a prepared nesting box
  3. Stay nearby until she settles
  4. Repeat for 3-5 days

Note: Works best with hand-tamed chickens.

Scent Marking

Rubbing fresh herbs (lavender, mint) in boxes:

  • Masks stress odors
  • Has calming effects
  • Creates scent memory

Maintaining Good Habits

Once trained, keep hens using boxes with:

  • Daily cleaning – Replace soiled bedding immediately
  • Seasonal adjustments – Add heat pads in winter
  • Predator proofing – Secure boxes against raccoons/snakes
  • Regular inspections – Check for mites, cracks, or drafts