The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: Marches Farmer on October 08, 2017, 08:55:41 am

Title: Red Mite Proof Nest Boxes
Post by: Marches Farmer on October 08, 2017, 08:55:41 am

I sent for a couple of heavy duty waterproof beds for my dogs and was struck by their suitability for nest boxes in a shed-type coop: raised sides so the hens feel secure; deep enough not to have the bedding scratched out and moulded plastic so they can be removed and hosed down.  Cheap, too.

Title: Re: Red Mite Proof Nest Boxes
Post by: Womble on October 08, 2017, 09:13:17 am

That's interesting! Have you got any pictures MF? 

In a similar vein, our hens currently nest in an old cracked cat litter tray (don't worry, it was thoroughly cleaned out)!  The one below is £13, so not cheap. However, I suspect similar to a dog bed?

(https://images.petplanet.co.uk/images/product_images/new_product_images/afp/60699.jpg)

Title: Re: Red Mite Proof Nest Boxes
Post by: DavidandCollette on October 08, 2017, 10:01:53 am

Picture of dog bed please

Title: Re: Red Mite Proof Nest Boxes
Post by: Marches Farmer on October 08, 2017, 08:46:50 pm

Having problems with computer and can't get photo uploaded but if you go on eBay and search for waterproof dog bed you'll see the ones I mean - oval, with a dip at the front for the dog to get in.  They come in various sizes and thicknesses - from pug size (I'm thinking bantams here) to cocker spaniel, which would be fine for a large fowl.

Title: Re: Red Mite Proof Nest Boxes
Post by: DippyEgg on October 16, 2017, 09:12:43 pm

Ikea Trofast plastic boxes are really good.