[Blobbs]

Hi
 Why do my hens poo in the nest boxes ? There are 8 of them in a coop for 10 so there is plenty of room to perch. The perches are higher than the nesting boxes and they don't bicker so it's not as if one is being bullied. I'm getting mucky eggs which doesn't look very appealing to my customers!

[jhub]

Do you mean they are sleeping in the nest boxes and pooping during the night, if so try blocking the nest box after they've laid their eggs and re open once they've settled in the coop for the night.

[Blobbs]

As we have an automatic door we don't really check them at night. Also I don't go to them till about 8.30 in the morning when they have layed. If I do the blocking off thing will they learn or will I always have to do it ?

[ANHBUC]

They should learn, but some are more determined than others.

The lowest in my pecking order has taken to sleeping in the nest box.  I just lift the lid of the nest box at night time to put her off.  When they have all gone to roost I close it, they are in a walk in run so are secure to do this.   

[Blobbs]

I could do that too as mine are in awalk in run with an electric fence top and bottom. Should I go and open the nest box now and leave it open all night ?

[ANHBUC]

You can open it now and close it after dark.  I have left mine open on really warm nights and it doesn't seem to stop them laying the next morning.  Just have to watch out for rain if your run doesn't have a roof to protect the opened nest box.   

[Blobbs]

Ok. Thankyou.
I think I will try to block it off tonight as it's raining and the run isn't covered.
 Thankyou for your advice.