How to Train Chickens to Lay Eggs in Nest Boxes (Fast & Easy)

To train chickens to lay in nest boxes, place the boxes in a quiet, dark area and encourage them with fake eggs or golf balls to promote nesting behavior.

Getting chickens to lay eggs in nest boxes saves time and prevents broken eggs. With the right techniques, you can train even stubborn hens to use their designated laying spots consistently.

Train chickens to use nest boxes effectively

Why Chickens Avoid Nest Boxes

Chickens may lay eggs outside nest boxes for several reasons:

  • Poor box design – Too bright, drafty, or uncomfortable
  • Insufficient boxes – Need 1 box per 4-5 hens
  • Dirty bedding – Hens avoid soiled nesting material
  • Predator stress – Feeling unsafe in current location
  • Established habits – Once they start laying elsewhere, it’s hard to break

Common Problem Areas

Chickens often choose these alternative laying spots:

Location Why They Like It
Coop corners Dark and secluded
Under bushes Protected from predators
Dog houses Soft bedding and warmth
Feed trays Familiar, high-traffic area
Train chickens to lay in nest boxes effectively

Step-by-Step Training Methods

1. Optimize Nest Box Conditions

Create the perfect laying environment:

  • Use 12″ deep boxes with 3-4″ of soft bedding
  • Place in darkest, quietest part of coop
  • Maintain 50-70°F temperature
  • Keep boxes clean – change bedding weekly

For more on coop setup, see our guide on how big a coop needs to be for 10 chickens.

2. Use Fake Eggs as Guides

Place ceramic or wooden eggs in boxes to:

  1. Show pullets where to lay
  2. Encourage older hens to return
  3. Prevent egg eating behavior

3. Confine Hens Until Midday

Most hens lay between 7-11 AM. Keep them in the coop with nest box access until noon to reinforce proper laying habits.

4. Block Undesirable Spots

If hens favor certain areas:

  • Cover with boards or wire mesh
  • Place obstacles in the space
  • Remove any collected eggs immediately

Advanced Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement

When you see a hen using the nest box:

  • Offer a special treat like mealworms
  • Speak softly to reward the behavior
  • Collect eggs promptly to keep boxes clean

Correcting Problem Layers

For chronic offenders:

  1. Identify the hen by watching laying patterns
  2. Confine her near nest boxes during peak laying hours
  3. Place her in a box when she shows nesting behavior

This method works well with chickens trained to come when called.

Preventing Future Problems

Daily Maintenance Routine

  • Collect eggs 2-3 times daily
  • Remove soiled bedding immediately
  • Check for mites or pests weekly
  • Rotate fake eggs between boxes

Seasonal Adjustments

Winter challenges require special attention:

  • Add extra bedding for insulation
  • Use a safe heat source if temperatures drop below freezing
  • Provide supplemental lighting for consistent laying

For more winter care tips, see our article on chicken care during vacations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Egg Eating

If hens start eating eggs:

  1. Collect eggs more frequently
  2. Use rollaway nest boxes
  3. Provide extra protein in feed
  4. Apply mustard to dummy eggs

Broody Hens

For hens that won’t leave nests:

  • Remove them several times daily
  • Block access to preferred nest
  • Use a broody breaker cage if needed

Multiple Hens per Box

When hens crowd one box:

  • Make all boxes identical
  • Add visual barriers between boxes
  • Place fake eggs in less popular boxes

For more on chicken behavior, check this external resource on nesting behavior.

Special Considerations by Breed

Some breeds need extra attention:

Breed Nesting Preference Training Tip
Leghorns Private, dark spaces Use curtains on boxes
Orpingtons Large, roomy boxes Provide extra-large boxes
Silkies Ground level access Use low-mounted boxes

Learn more about breed differences in this external guide to nesting boxes.