Creating a roll away chicken nest box can significantly improve your egg collection process and prevent chickens from pecking at their own eggs. For those who are considering this DIY project, I want to share some tips and gather ideas from the community!
Why a Roll Away Nest Box?
A roll away chicken nest box is designed so that when a hen lays an egg, it rolls into a separate compartment. This reduces the chances of eggs being eaten by the hen or damaging them when they sit on them too long.
Materials Needed
Wood - Plywood or solid wood boards are great for the structure.
Hinges - These will allow the top or door to open easily.
Screws and Nails - For assembling the nest boxes.
Non-slip material - Like rubber matting, to help the eggs roll smoothly.
Roofing material (optional) - To protect the box from elements if placing outside.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Design Your Nest Box
Sketch out your design based on the size of your chickens and space available. A common dimension is about 14-16 inches wide, 12-14 inches deep, and 12-14 inches high.
2. Cut the Wood
Using your measurements, cut out the wood pieces for the sides, bottom, and top. Remember to include a slight incline so the eggs roll away easily.
3. Assemble the Box
Using screws and nails, start assembling the nest box. Attach the bottom to the sides, then secure the top. Be sure to create a way for hens to access the box comfortably.
4. Add Non-slip Material
Line the bottom with non-slip material to prevent eggs from sticking and to help them roll into the collection area.
5. Install Hinges
On one side, install hinges to allow easy access to the nest box for cleaning and egg collection.
Tips for Success
Location Matters: Place the nest box in a quiet, dark spot in the coop to make it more attractive to hens.
Keep it Clean: Regular cleaning helps prevent diseases and keeps the nesting area inviting.
Experiment and Adjust: You might need to tweak your design based on how your chickens respond to it.
Share Your Ideas!
I’d love to hear from others who have tried building their own roll away chicken nest boxes. What designs have worked for you? Any tips or tricks to share? Let’s collaborate to create the best nesting solution for our feathered friends!
I’ve been experimenting with different materials for my chicken nest box. Going with plywood offers durability, and it’s lightweight too! Just make sure to use exterior-grade plywood if you want it to withstand the weather.
If you’re going to build a roll away nest box, make sure to have hinges that are heavy-duty! I’ve had cheap ones fail on me. Stainless steel ones work best for longevity.
Hinges and latches are very important! You might also want to consider using a weatherproof sealant to keep everything watertight – trust me, it pays off!
I’m excited to see the ideas on this topic! I’ve been thinking about making a roll away nest box for a while now. What have you all considered for size? I think a width of at least 12 inches would be good for larger breeds.
Absolutely, rjones! A sloped design could make egg collection so much easier. Plus, accessible clean-out doors on the side could be a major help for maintenance. Anyone have tips on how to construct those?