My Nesting Box

The nesting box that I created is a complete replica of what is commercially available. The only difference is that I painted them with water based paints, but only on the outside. Picture above shows the sketch of the nesting box that I created using google sketch. The size is 8 inches (deep) x 8 inches (tall) and 12 inches wide. As suggested by many, the bigger the nest box, the better. Just like the breeding cages. But if you want to maximize your breeding aviary, then using the minimum size should be fine, but never go lower than that.

Initial preparation

Before I put my new breeders inside their new breeding cages, I see to it that their nest box is initially prepared. Inside the nesting box is around 2 inches thick of wood shavings. I cut them into small pieces like ½ to ¾ of an inch. I carefully select every wood shaving that I put in; making sure that only soft materials are included.

Normally, nesting box is placed outside the breeding cage so that there is enough space for the birds to beat their wings without hitting anything or they should be able to climb and play as a form of an exercise. But then again, since I do not have the luxury of doing this because of limited space, I placed the nest box inside the breeding cage. Fortunately, my birds seem happy and breeding well.

I also make sure that I can easily open the door of the nesting box every time I want to peek in. If the door seems tight, I sand them down to smooth the edges. In this manner, I avoided wiggling the nest box, which might be irritating to the hen, eggs or chicks.


Cleaning

Though my nesting box is placed inside the breeding cage, I see to it that I can remove the nesting box every time I need to clean it. Nesting box is hanged inside using only brass hooks (without any sharp edges), but making sure that it is in steady position and not wiggling.