Communal or Partitioned nest boxes - which is best?

Choosing the right nest box setup for your chickens can make a big difference in their comfort, egg production, and coop cleanliness. Two common options are communal and partitioned nest boxes. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, but when it comes to overall advantages, communal nest boxes often come out on top. This post explores the pros and cons of both types and highlights why communal nest boxes, especially the innovative Eggtopia nest box, are a smart choice for chicken keepers in the UK.

Partition nest boxes often lead to several chickens trying to nab the best spot

Understanding Partitioned Nest Boxes

Partitioned nest boxes divide the nesting area into individual compartments, usually separated by walls or dividers. Each hen gets her own private space to lay eggs.

Benefits of Partitioned Nest Boxes

• Easier egg identification: Eggs stay separated, making it simpler to identify which hen laid which egg if needed.

  
  

Drawbacks of Partitioned Nest Boxes

• Space inefficiency: Partitioned boxes require more room to accommodate multiple hens, which can be a problem in smaller coops.

• Cleaning challenges: Dividers can trap dirt and droppings, making cleaning more time-consuming.

• Less social interaction: Chickens are social animals, and strict partitions can limit their natural behaviors and cause frustration.

• More stress and broken eggs: In theory, partitioned nest boxes give each hen her own space, but in reality, hens often fight over one favourite box whilst ignoring all the others, and this can lead to injury, broken eggs, and stressed hens.

  
  

Exploring Communal Nest Boxes

Communal nest boxes provide a shared space where multiple hens can lay eggs together without physical dividers.

Benefits of Communal Nest Boxes

• Space-saving design: One large box can serve several hens, freeing up coop space.

• Encourages natural behavior: Chickens often prefer to lay eggs near others, and communal boxes support this social habit.

• Simpler cleaning: Without partitions, cleaning is quicker and more straightforward.

• Cost-effective: Fewer materials and less space mean lower costs for setup and maintenance.

• Fewer floor eggs, as the hens are not waiting for their favourite spot to open up.

  
  

Common Concerns About Communal Nest Boxes

• Egg piling and breakage: Without dividers, eggs can pile up, increasing the risk of breakage, which is why the rollaway Eggtopia nest box with its communal layout provides the best laying experience for both hen and keeper.

  
  

Why Communal Nest Boxes Are Actually Better

Communal nest boxes offer more benefits for all chicken keepers. Chickens are naturally social and often prefer to lay eggs in groups. Communal boxes encourage this behavior, leading to less stress and better egg production.

The key to overcoming common issues like egg breakage and dominance lies in smart design. This is where the Eggtopia nest box stands out.

The Eggtopia Nest Box: A Communal Nest Box with Unique Features

The Eggtopia nest box is the only communal nest box of its kind available in the UK. It combines the best of both worlds with features that address typical communal box challenges.

Key Features of the Eggtopia Nest Box

• Reversible design: The box can be flipped to suit different coop layouts or cleaning preferences.

• Rollaway system: Eggs gently roll away from the hens into a protected collection area, preventing piling and breakage.

• Spacious communal area: Multiple hens can nest comfortably without feeling cramped.

• Easy to clean: Smooth surfaces and clever design make maintenance simple.

• Durable materials: Built to last in various weather conditions.

  
  

Benefits of Using Eggtopia

• Reduced egg damage: The rollaway feature keeps eggs safe and clean.

• Supports natural behavior: Hens can nest together, reducing stress.

• Flexible installation: The reversible design fits many coop styles.

• Time-saving: Easier egg collection and cleaning save you effort.

  
  

Practical Tips for Choosing and Using Nest Boxes

Whether you choose communal or partitioned nest boxes, keep these tips in mind:

• Provide enough space: Aim for one nest box per 3-4 hens when using a partition to reduce competition, or with a communal box such as the Eggtopia, make note of their size guidelines. For instance an 800mm wide communal box is suitable for up to 20 hens.

• Keep boxes clean and dry: Regular cleaning prevents disease and keeps hens happy, so choose one that is easy to clean, and made from materials that are easy to maintain.

• Place boxes in quiet, dim areas: Hens prefer calm spots for laying.

• Use soft bedding: Straw or wood shavings cushion eggs and provide comfort, or a specialised nest box matting can be more hygenic and easier to maintain.

• Monitor hen behavior: If using a partition nest box, watch for bullying or egg-eating and adjust as needed, or consider upgrading to the Eggtopia.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Nest Box Choices

Communal nest boxes offer clear advantages in space efficiency, ease of cleaning, and supporting natural hen behavior. The Eggtopia nest box is an excellent example of how thoughtful design can solve common nest box problems, making it a top choice for UK chicken keepers.