How do you make a cardboard nesting box?

Question

My birds mated yesterday for 1 min and i want to know how you make a nesting box out of a shoebox or anything like that.

I know its alot better to get one from petco which I will do if I can't make it.

so please help

thanks

Answer 1

well you could try that, but depending on the bird, they will probably eat the cardboard instead of using it as a nest lol.

Answer 2

Just because your birds are mating, doesn't necessarily mean that the hen will lay eggs and begin nesting.

Even if she is going to lay an egg, it will take some time.  Mating does not result in an instant egg.  Birds store sperm inside their body, which is then used to fertilize eggs as they are forming.

You could make a nest from a small box, but you'll have better success, and ease of use with a pre-made nestbox.  They are very inexpensive.

Please be aware that if you are going to actively breed your birds, you will need far more than a nest box.  If you cannot afford proper supplies, are not prepared, or lack experience - I would recommend that you discourage nesting and egg-laying.

Egg laying is stressful to hens, and can be dangerous.  Egg binding and other complications are common, and typically fatal if not treated immediately.

Breeding, egg-laying and nesting is spurred by hormones, which are triggered by seasonal changes, primarily longer daylight hours.  Birds kept on "winter hours" will have a reduced hormone level, effectively stopping most nesting behavior.

To prevent egg-laying, I recommend at least 12 hours of undisturbed sleep each night.  This is easiest if birds are kept in a quiet area, and cages are covered.  Bird cage covers work, as do dark colored bedsheets.

Best of luck to you!