To encourage chickens to lay in nesting boxes, provide a comfortable, quiet environment, use clean bedding, and place fake eggs in the boxes to attract them.
Getting chickens to lay eggs in nesting boxes instead of random spots can be frustrating. Whether your hens prefer dog houses, porch corners, or food trays, these proven strategies will help redirect them to proper laying areas.
Why Chickens Avoid Nesting Boxes
Chickens develop strong preferences for egg-laying locations. Common reasons they avoid nesting boxes include:
- Dirty or soiled bedding
- Insufficient number of boxes
- Too much light or noise
- Uncomfortable nesting material
- Lack of visual cues
As noted in our article on why chickens dig holes to lay eggs, this behavior stems from their instinct to find secure, hidden spots.
Essential Nesting Box Setup
Proper Dimensions
Each nesting box should be:
| Measurement | Ideal Size |
|---|---|
| Width | 12-14 inches |
| Depth | 12-14 inches |
| Height | 12 inches |
Location Matters
Place boxes in the darkest, quietest part of the coop. According to Penn State Extension, chickens prefer nesting areas with:
- Minimal foot traffic
- Low light levels
- Elevated position (but lower than roosts)
Training Techniques That Work
1. Use Fake Eggs as Guides
Place ceramic or wooden dummy eggs in each nesting box. This:
- Shows hens where to lay
- Prevents egg eating
- Encourages consistent use
2. Confine Hens Until Midday
Most chickens lay between 7-11 AM. Keep them in the coop with nesting box access until noon to establish the habit.
3. Block Undesirable Spots
If hens lay in specific wrong locations:
- Cover food trays with mesh
- Fill corners with straw bales
- Place obstacles in favorite outdoor spots
4. Catch and Redirect
When you see a hen preparing to lay in the wrong spot:
- Gently pick her up
- Place her in a nesting box
- Stay nearby until she settles
This method works well with persistent offenders, as explained in our guide on training chickens to respond to commands.
Maintenance Tips for Success
Daily Cleaning Routine
Remove soiled bedding and replace with:
- Fresh pine shavings
- Straw (changed weekly)
- Dried herbs (lavender or mint)
Proper Box Ratio
Provide one nesting box per 4-5 hens. Overcrowding leads to:
- Floor laying
- Egg breakage
- Increased stress
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Hens Sleeping in Nesting Boxes
This creates dirty boxes. Solutions include:
- Installing higher roosts
- Blocking boxes at night
- Adding roost space (8-12″ per bird)
Winter Laying Problems
As noted by Poultry Extension, egg production naturally decreases in winter. Maintain laying habits by:
- Adding supplemental light (14 hours/day)
- Providing extra insulation
- Using heated waterers
Special Considerations for Young Hens
Pullets (young hens) need extra guidance:
- Introduce them to boxes before laying begins
- Use older hens as role models
- Place treats in boxes to encourage exploration
For more on pullet development, see our article about when Rhode Island Reds start laying.