Chicken nesting, and their laying boxes can seem a little confusing at times. Many new owners of chickens are simply unsure just what they should either be purchasing or making. In reality it is a fairly simple process once we have learned a few of the basics.

In my experience you never need as many nesting boxes as you may have thought. This is especially true if you are keeping hens strictly for their eggs. Chickens have a habit of always deciding that one nesting box is the best and they all seem to wait in turn to lay in this one box. Just get one box for every three birds or so. This usually works out absolutely fine and is more than adequate.

As far as bedding is concerned I always recommend that you use something like sawdust. It is very inexpensive and does a fantastic job. It really is one of the best materials to use. Alternatively you may use something like shredded newspaper. This is also very effective and is even cheaper. Whatever you use, make sure it is not hard so the hens will be more inclined to use it to lay their eggs. There is nothing worse than having to search around the coop for eggs on a cold morning.

Chicken nesting may seem a bit daunting if you are new to keeping chickens but there really is very little to it. Just get a good box and some quality bedding and you will have some happy hens.

Chicken nesting advice and information is available at chicken nesting boxes.