[Ross Bibby]

I did a quick search but couldn't find my answer.

I'm just planning my chicken house in order to have it built in time for next spring(ish)
What I want to know is what kind of dimensions should the nest boxes be? From my internet searches I'm getting a bit of conflicting advice.

Also, for perches, are chickens happy just sitting on bare wood? They won't get any kind of foot complaints no? From what I've seen, the perches shold not be too narrow but not too wide  So, what's 'just right'?

Cheers
Ross

[Rosemary]

Our nest  boxes in the arks are about 18" x 12" - one for every 4 hens. We also have a free standing nest box from a book called Smallholders DIY, which they like.

Perches 2" x 2" with the corners taken off - don't put them too high 12-18" off the floor or they'll damage their feet jumping down. Use good close grained wood, in good condition, so that red mite won't be able to live in it.

[Ross Bibby]

Riiiight!
I was thinking one per hen.
That makes it much easier.

Thank you

[Ross Bibby]

Haha!!
I've just seen the time of my last post!

I like it when that sort of thing happens
And now I've ruined it . .  .cof . . . . slink