Just reading the recent topic on bedtimes which has evolved into perching but thought it best to start a new topic: One of my pekins has recently decided to sleep in the nesting box after 3 years of perching. When I move her on to the perch she just squawks loudly and stumbles back into the box again (it being a bit dark by now). I have considered putting something in the nesting boxes to prevent it (eg flowerpots or balls) but I feel really mean - if that's where she's comfortable maybe I should let her be? I've inspected both her and the coop and can't find anything wrong - no foot/leg injuries or red mite as far as I can see. My lone cockerel sadly died last week, possibly of a gut infection or cocci but she seems absolutely fine and he was in a separate run anyway. Is it really unhealthy for them to sit rather than perch, other than getting poo in the nesting box?
To perch or not to perch?
- Thread starter elmdene
- Start date
The poo in the nestbox means dirty eggs, which is why I always try to train them out of using it. A couple of large plastic pots do the trick, put in after they've finished laying for the day, and removed early in the morning, or after they have gone to roost if you are down there seeing how they are getting on. A few days usually helps them get the message!
If one starts the others may well follow and then you'll have a real mess every day, just where you most don't want it!
If one starts the others may well follow and then you'll have a real mess every day, just where you most don't want it!
