Chickens are quite secretive when it comes to laying eggs, and nestboxes need to make them feel protected.  Typically they are built into a low, dark part of a chicken coop to provide chickens with a good sense of security.

Nesting boxes can be made out of anything.  You can use a crate, or even an old drawer from a set of drawers.  Chickens do like to perch before they start nesting in their coop, so provide something for the chicken to roost on as well.

Put some wood shavings on the bottom and then straw on top, and you have a great nesting box for your chickens!

Once you have the basics covered in your Chicken Coop design, why not add some extra comforts to your coop to keep your chickens productive and happy?

• Run some electricity our to your coop and provide them with some light if you want to keep them laying eggs all year
• Keep the temperature right.  If you live in a cold environment then make sure your coop is well insulated, and if you live in a hot climate, make sure they have plenty of cool shelter.

Another great idea we have seen is putting a webcam into the coop so that you can keep an eye on your chickens during the day.   This is a fantastic tip if you are planning on going away for the weekend too!