To stop chickens from sleeping in nesting boxes, provide adequate perches, ensure nesting boxes are dark and secluded, and remove bedding from boxes at night.
Chickens naturally prefer to roost on elevated perches at night, but sometimes they develop the frustrating habit of sleeping in nesting boxes instead. This leads to dirty eggs, messy nests, and potential health issues. Here’s how to break this behavior and train your flock to sleep where they should.
Why Chickens Shouldn’t Sleep in Nesting Boxes
Nesting boxes are designed for laying eggs – not for overnight roosting. When chickens sleep in nests:
- They fill boxes with droppings overnight
- Eggs become soiled and harder to clean
- Multiple hens may overcrowd a single box
- Broken eggs become more likely
- Nests require daily cleaning
5 Reasons Chickens Sleep in Nesting Boxes
1. Poor Roost Design
Roosts should be higher than nesting boxes. Chickens instinctively seek the highest perch available. If nests are higher, they’ll choose them over roosts.
2. Mite Infestations
Northern fowl mites and red mites can make roosts uncomfortable. Check for tiny bugs around the vent area and treat with approved poultry mite treatments.
3. Inadequate Roosting Space
Each chicken needs 8-12 inches of roost space. Overcrowding forces some birds to seek alternative sleeping spots.
4. Cold Weather
Chickens may huddle together in nests for warmth. Ensure proper coop insulation and consider cold weather adjustments.
5. Learned Behavior
Once one chicken starts sleeping in nests, others often follow. This habit must be corrected early.
Effective Solutions to Stop Nest Sleeping
Adjust Roost Height
Install roosts at least 12 inches higher than nesting boxes. Use 2×4 lumber with the wide side up for comfortable footing.
Block Nest Access at Night
Use these methods to physically prevent entry:
| Method | How To |
|---|---|
| Vinyl Curtains | Hang plastic strips weighted with a rod |
| Wooden Boards | Place removable panels over nest openings |
| Tote Lids | Snap plastic lids over box entrances |
Train With Nightly Relocation
For 1-2 weeks, manually move chickens from nests to roosts each evening. They’ll learn the proper sleeping spot through repetition.
Use Fake Eggs
Place ceramic or wooden eggs in nests during the day to establish their purpose. Remove at night when blocking access.
Improve Roost Comfort
Ensure roosts:
- Have rounded edges
- Are wide enough for feet (2-4 inches)
- Are free of splinters
- Are positioned away from drafts
Preventing Future Problems
Once your chickens are roosting properly:
- Keep nests clean – replace bedding weekly
- Collect eggs frequently – at least twice daily
- Monitor for mites regularly
- Provide adequate roost space as flock grows
According to poultry experts at Backyard Chickens, consistent training for 1-2 weeks typically breaks the nest-sleeping habit. The Poultry Extension recommends addressing this issue before hens begin laying to prevent egg contamination.
With proper roost setup and consistent training, your chickens will soon sleep where they belong – leaving nests clean for egg laying.