- Apr 8, 2007
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I am interested in raising 20-30 free-range laying hens. I have been reviewing coop/nesting house designs, but I am undecided on a cheap, simple design. My primary concern is the predator activity in my area.
The best design that I can think of is the following:
5 - 14"x14" nesting boxes contained in a 4'x4'x6' plywood box, with 2 12"x12" entry holes in the front and a hinged door in the back to collect the eggs.
The box will be built on 6-3x3 posts and will sit 5 feet off the ground.
To provide predator protection I will either:
1. Install large metal cones facing downward (approximately 2 feet in diameter) 3 feet up on the posts, or
2. Cover the posts with metal (steel or aluminum).
The idea is that predators will not be able to climb up the posts to enter the nesting houses.
An additional concern is how to entice the hens to roost in the nesting houses.
Any ideas are appreciated.
Thanks.
The best design that I can think of is the following:
5 - 14"x14" nesting boxes contained in a 4'x4'x6' plywood box, with 2 12"x12" entry holes in the front and a hinged door in the back to collect the eggs.
The box will be built on 6-3x3 posts and will sit 5 feet off the ground.
To provide predator protection I will either:
1. Install large metal cones facing downward (approximately 2 feet in diameter) 3 feet up on the posts, or
2. Cover the posts with metal (steel or aluminum).
The idea is that predators will not be able to climb up the posts to enter the nesting houses.
An additional concern is how to entice the hens to roost in the nesting houses.
Any ideas are appreciated.
Thanks.