The Girls Have Nest Boxes!

The girls have been rather confused about where to lay eggs. Being stressed they can hold their eggs for up to 48 hours. I imagine a few are out in the scrub but the dogs haven't found them so... maybe not.

They're very comfy in their new digs even in this rough unfinished stage. They aren't eating their food but are getting plenty because I am checking their crops. They have been very full so I wasn't in a hurry to let them out. I want them to accept and know their new coop as home. Earlier this week I finally let them roam free after being cooped up - pun intended :) Within minutes all three were heavily engrossed in dust bathing, throwing sand everywhere and getting thoroughly covered. No need to provide sand and ash anymore. They now happily wander all over eating to their heart's content - crops overflowing with all natural bugs!

Nesting boxes were made yesterday. The girls were introduced, a slight design adjustment made, and I figure I'll soon find eggs where they belong. Happy girls! Yes, I have plans to paint after the coop is enclosed and I decide on colors. As for now you get a shot in the bare. In order from left to right, Henrietta, Lillie Mae, and Reba. 

You may be wondering if we'll build more for the newbies and later additions that I plan. Well, no. I don't want THAT many and they'll all use the same box anyway. These three nests will service about 24 just fine.