How to Build a Roll Away Nesting Box for Your Chickens

Housing & Equipment
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Building a roll away nesting box for chickens can drastically improve your egg collection process and help keep your coop clean. In this tutorial, I’ll break down the steps you need to create an effective roll away nesting box, some tips for installation, and how to troubleshoot any issues you might encounter along the way.

What is a Roll Away Nesting Box?

A roll away nesting box is a design that allows eggs to roll away from the nesting area after they are laid, reducing the chance of breakage and keeping the nesting area cleaner. This system also discourages hens from eating their own eggs, which is a common problem in traditional nesting setups.

Materials Needed:

  • Wood: Plywood or wooden boards for the frame and walls.
  • Mesh Wire: To protect the eggs while allowing ventilation.
  • Hinges: For the access door to the nesting box.
  • Screws and Nails: For assembly.
  • Non-Toxic Paint or Stain: To protect the wood from weather and chicken droppings.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Designing the Box

  • Dimensions: A standard size for a roll away nesting box is approximately 16" x 16" x 18" for one hen. You can scale it up based on your flock size.
  • Flap Design: You want to create a flap at the back, slanted at about a 30-degree angle that will allow the eggs to roll away.

Step 2: Building the Frame

  1. Cut the wood to the required dimensions.
  2. Assemble the frame using screws and ensure it’s sturdy enough to withstand daily use.

Step 3: Creating the Nesting Area

  1. Attach the bottom of the nesting area with a slight incline to ensure the eggs can easily roll away.
  2. Install a barrier at the entrance to prevent birds from hopping in after laying.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

  • Paint or stain the outside, ensuring it’s safe for your chickens.
  • Attach the mesh wire on the front to keep the nesting box secure but allow airflow.

Installation Tips:

  • Position the nesting box in a quiet area of the coop to encourage laying.
  • Ensure it is easily accessible for both the hens and for you when collecting eggs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

  • Eggs Getting Stuck: If eggs are not rolling away, check the angle of the flap and make adjustments if necessary.
  • Hens Not Using It: Make sure there is enough bedding material and that the box is in a secure location.

Conclusion

Creating a roll away nesting box for your chickens might seem daunting, but it’s a rewarding project that can bring efficiency to your egg collection. Plus, it keeps your hens happier and healthier. If you have any questions or need further tips, feel free to ask here!

Happy building!

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Building a roll away nesting box is a fantastic idea for keeping eggs clean! Start with a 12-inch by 14-inch base. This size accommodates most chicken breeds comfortably.

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That’s a great tip, willispaul! I recommend using plywood for the walls – it’s sturdy and relatively lightweight.

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For the roll away feature, a sloped floor helps. Consider using a 15-degree angle to ensure the eggs roll out into a collection tray.

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That’s brilliant! And keep the collection tray at least 6 inches deep to avoid spillage.

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Don’t forget ventilation! Drill some 1-inch holes near the top for airflow. Chickens prefer a well-ventilated nesting area.

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Absolutely right! Also, lining the box with straw can make it more inviting for your hens.

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I was thinking of using hinges to allow easy access for cleaning. What do you all think? Is that a good strategy?

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Yes! Hinges are essential. Just ensure they are rust-resistant to withstand the weather.

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I’m curious, has anyone tried adding a lid for additional protection? Would it interfere with nesting?

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A lid can be beneficial, but it could make it cumbersome for the hens. I’d keep it simple!

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I feel like the box could look innovative with some fun paint! Maybe bright colors to catch their fancy?

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That’s such a fun idea! Just make sure the paint is non-toxic for the chickens!

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Reflecting on my own experience, ensuring a comfy bedding layer keeps my chickens happy. It really makes a difference in egg production.

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Very true! Happy hens lay better eggs. Always a good reminder!

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Building a roll away nesting box for chickens is a game-changer! They really help to keep eggs clean by rolling away from the chickens. This is so much better than traditional boxes where eggs get dirty or worse, broken!

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Exactly! Plus, with a roll away system, the risk of breakage drops significantly. It’s just more efficient overall.

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I’ve been using roll away nesting boxes for a year now, and I can confirm they’re much easier to clean. I just love the time and hassle I save with them!

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That’s true! Traditional boxes require frequent scrubbing, while roll away boxes need minimal effort to maintain. Less mess is always a win!

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But are roll away nesting boxes really worth the investment? Couldn’t you just manage with regular boxes if kept clean? Just curious!