Finding the Perfect Height: How High Off the Floor Should Chicken Nesting Boxes Be?

Alright, fellow chicken enthusiasts! If you’re reading this, chances are you’re either building a new coop or rethinking your existing setup. One of the most common questions I get from both newbie and experienced chicken keepers is about nesting box placement – specifically, how high off the floor should chicken nesting boxes be?

It’s a seemingly simple question that can actually make a huge difference in your hens’ laying habits and your egg-collecting experience I’ve gone through the trial and error myself, and trust me, getting this right will save you from a lot of headaches down the road!

Why Nesting Box Height Matters

Before we dive into the ideal measurements, let’s talk about why getting the height right is so important:

1. Egg accessibility – You want to be able to collect eggs without doing gymnastics
2. Hen comfort – Your ladies need to easily hop in and out
3. Cleanliness – Proper height helps prevent poop from ending up where your eggs should be
4. Behavioral habits – The right height discourages sleeping in nest boxes (which leads to messy nests)

When I first started with chickens, I placed my nesting boxes way too high. My poor hens would literally have to fly up to lay their eggs! Then I overcompensated and put them on the ground, which resulted in a different problem – they pooped in them constantly. Live and learn, right?

The Ideal Height: What the Experts Say

Based on my research and personal experience, the sweet spot for nesting box height is typically between 18-24 inches off the floor. But there’s actually quite a bit of debate on this topic among chicken keepers.

According to discussions on BackYard Chickens forum some folks have success with boxes as low as 4 inches off the ground, while others prefer them at around 3 feet high. The important thing is finding what works for your specific flock and coop setup.

Here’s what seems to work for most chicken keepers:

• 16-18 inches is a common height that many successful chicken keepers recommend
• Lower than the roosting bars is a critical factor (we’ll discuss this more later)
• High enough that you can access underneath for cleaning

One forum member mentioned that their boxes are about 16 inches off the ground, which allows the chickens to get underneath them. This setup works well, though they noted that occasionally a hen will lay under the boxes rather than inside them.

Factors That Influence the Ideal Height

The “perfect” height isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Several factors come into play:

1. Chicken Breed Size

Different chicken breeds have different jumping capabilities:

• Larger breeds (like Brahmas or Cochins): May need lower boxes (12-18 inches)
• Standard breeds (like Rhode Island Reds or Leghorns): Do well with the standard 18-24 inches
• Bantams and smaller breeds: Can usually handle higher boxes without issues

2. Age of Your Flock

Young pullets who are just starting to lay might need more accessible boxes than experienced layers. I’ve found that starting with slightly lower boxes helps train beginners.

3. Coop Design

The overall layout of your coop matters too:

• Available vertical space in your coop
• Location of windows and doors
• Roosting bar placement (more on this next)

4. Deep Litter Method Considerations

If you’re using the deep litter method, you’ll want to account for bedding that might build up over time. One forum user mentioned placing boxes about 18 inches off the floor specifically to accommodate deep litter or to have space to place dishpans underneath for Silkies to nest in.

The Roost-to-Nest Relationship: A Critical Factor

Here’s something super important that many beginners miss: your roosting bars should always be higher than your nesting boxes.

Why? Because chickens naturally seek the highest point to sleep, and you definitely don’t want them sleeping in the nesting boxes. When they sleep, they poop… a lot. And nobody wants poopy eggs!

According to experienced chicken keepers on the forums, roosts should be noticeably higher than the nesting boxes. Some suggest at least 4-6 inches higher, while others prefer an even bigger difference.

One particularly detailed response from a forum member named “Ridgerunner” explains that they consider ventilation, roosts, and nests as a system working together when setting heights. They suggest placing a roost over the nest boxes but lower than the main roosts to serve as a transition perch for younger birds, while the top of the nest boxes acts as a droppings board.

Common Nesting Box Height Problems & Solutions

Problem #1: Hens are pooping in the nesting boxes

Potential Causes:

• Boxes are too low and getting scratched into
• Hens are sleeping in the nesting boxes
• Young pullets haven’t learned proper habits yet

Solutions:

• Make sure roosts are higher than nesting boxes
• Keep nesting boxes closed at night until hens are roosting properly
• Add a lip at the bottom of the nesting box to prevent scratched material from entering

Problem #2: Hens won’t use the nesting boxes

Potential Causes:

• Boxes are too high without proper access
• Boxes aren’t inviting or comfortable enough
• Hens have found an alternative spot they prefer

Solutions:

• Add a perch in front of the nesting boxes for easier access
• Make boxes darker and more private (hens love secrecy for laying)
• Put curtains on the front of the boxes for privacy
• Add comfortable bedding and maybe a fake “training” egg

Problem #3: Hens laying on the floor under the nesting boxes

Potential Causes:

• Natural instinct to find a dark, hidden spot
• Nesting boxes may be too high or uncomfortable
• Dominance issues preventing access to boxes

Solutions:

• Block off under-box areas
• Make sure you have enough boxes (1 per 4-5 hens)
• Check that the boxes are comfortable and appealing

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Nesting Boxes at the Right Height

If you’re ready to install or adjust your nesting boxes, here’s my practical guide:

What You’ll Need:

• Measuring tape
• Level
• Pencil for marking
• Drill with screws
• Nesting boxes (purchased or DIY)
• Assistant (optional but helpful)

Step 1: Measure and Mark

1. Decide on your desired height (18-24 inches is typically good)
2. Mark the wall where the bottom of the nesting box will sit
3. Use a level to ensure your marks are even

Step 2: Consider Accessibility

1. Plan how you’ll access the boxes for egg collection
2. If using external access, make sure the height works from outside too
3. Ensure hens have a clear path to enter the boxes

Step 3: Install Securely

1. Mount boxes firmly to the wall or build supports underneath
2. Double-check that everything is level
3. Test the sturdiness – these need to hold up to daily chicken use!

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

1. Install any perches or landing boards in front of the boxes
2. Add comfortable bedding material
3. Consider adding curtains for privacy (sounds fancy, but hens love it!)

Nesting Box Designs That Work at Different Heights

Different nesting box designs work better at certain heights. Here are some options:

Floor-Level or Low Boxes (0-12 inches)

• Best for: Flocks with older or less mobile hens
• Design tips: Include high lips to prevent bedding from being scratched out, ensure good drainage, provide easy access for cleaning

Standard Height Boxes (18-24 inches)

• Best for: Most flocks with average-sized chickens
• Design tips: Include a small perch in front for easy access, make boxes deep enough for comfort

Higher Boxes (24-36 inches)

• Best for: Limited floor space, protection from predators
• Design tips: Always include sturdy perches or ramps for access, ensure boxes are extra secure

One forum user shared a great idea for making boxes more inviting – they created a little “hen cave” by placing a 4-inch strip at the bottom and another 4-inch strip at the top of the opening. This design made the boxes an appealing place to lay while discouraging roosting.

My Personal Experience with Nesting Box Heights

I’ve tried just about every height configuration in my years of raising chickens. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own coop:

When I first started, I put the nesting boxes about 3 feet high because I thought it would make egg collection easier for me. Big mistake! Half my hens wouldn’t use them, and I’d find eggs randomly around the coop.

Then I went to the opposite extreme and put them on the floor. The hens loved them, but they got so messy so quickly! Cleaning became a constant chore.

I finally settled on about 18 inches off the ground with a small perch in front, and it’s been perfect. The hens can easily hop in, I can collect eggs without bending too much, and they stay relatively clean.

One thing I’ve noticed is that my Easter Eggers prefer slightly higher boxes than my Orpingtons. So if you have multiple breeds, consider offering boxes at varying heights to see what each prefers!

Adjusting Nesting Box Height for Special Situations

Broody Hens

If you have hens that go broody regularly and you want to encourage this behavior, you might want a few nesting boxes closer to the ground. This can be easier for a broody hen with chicks to manage.

A forum member noted that broody hens sometimes take chicks into low nests to sleep at night until they’re ready to introduce them to the roosts. This transitional behavior is normal.

Integrating Young Pullets

When introducing young pullets to the coop, they might not immediately understand how to use higher nesting boxes. Having some transitional height options can help them learn.

Injured or Limited Mobility Birds

If you have hens with leg injuries or mobility issues, consider installing at least one lower nesting box that they can access more easily.

FAQ About Nesting Box Height

Q: Can nesting boxes be too high?
A: Yes! If your hens can’t comfortably access them, they’ll lay elsewhere. Watch your hens – if they’re struggling to get in or avoiding the boxes, they’re probably too high.

Q: What if my hens lay eggs on the floor despite having proper nesting boxes?
A: This could be due to several factors: not enough nesting boxes, boxes not private enough, or simply habit. Try making the nesting boxes more appealing and blocking off the areas where they’re laying on the floor.

Q: Should different breeds have different height nesting boxes?
A: Ideally, yes. Smaller or more agile breeds can handle higher boxes than heavier breeds. If you have mixed breeds, consider offering a couple of different heights.

Q: How do I transition hens from laying on the floor to using proper nesting boxes?
A: Place fake eggs in the nesting boxes, block off their current laying spots, and ensure the boxes are at a comfortable height. Consistency is key – it may take a couple of weeks for them to adjust.

The Bottom Line on Nesting Box Height

After all this discussion, you might be wondering what the definitive answer is. Well, here’s my take: 18-24 inches off the floor is the sweet spot for most flocks, with roosts positioned higher than the boxes.

But remember, the best height depends on your specific situation:

• Your chicken breeds
• Your coop design
• Your flock’s habits and preferences
• Your own accessibility needs

The most important thing is to observe your flock and be willing to make adjustments. Chickens are individuals with preferences, and sometimes what works in theory doesn’t work in practice.

Happy chicken keeping!

~ Your Friendly Neighborhood Chicken Enthusiast

P.S. Don’t forget that no matter what height you choose, regular cleaning is essential for happy hens and clean eggs. Even perfectly positioned nesting boxes need maintenance!