Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Geese and most ducks do not need a roost and will not use one; Muscovy ducks are
the exception. The roost for these animals should be situated about 3 feet (1 m) off the
ground and provide about 1 foot (30 cm) of width per bird.
Older breeds of turkeys must have a roost or they will never be content: they'll al-
ways be trying to find a roost. Naturally mating heritage turkey types, for example,
prefer a higher roost — 6 feet (1.8 m) is ideal for many — while modern broad-breasted
varieties need no roost at all.
Large, heavy breeds of chickens may need to have a small ladderlike structure that
gets them up to the level of the roost; however, most breeds can get to the roost without
trouble.
Many types of roost designs exist. The simplest and easiest setup to maintain in-
volves installing all roosts at the same level, which reduces pecking-order scuffles.
Nest Boxes
Nest boxes are the final piece of necessary equipment for all fowl. For chickens, it's best
to situate nest boxes about 2 feet (0.6 m) off the ground. You can either nail the boxes
up or place them on an old bucket or something similiar. Keep nest boxes for turkeys,
ducks, geese and guineas on the ground. Figure one nest box for every 8 to 10 hens of
any species.
You can purchase premade metal nest boxes in many styles or you can build your
own. Follow the directions below to make a reasonably priced, easy-to-make nest. If
you are raising ducks, turkeys, or geese, increase the size of the nest box appropriately
and do not mount it on the wall. For ducks, increase the sides to 15 inches by 15 inches
(38×38 cm). Geese and turkeys generally require about 30 inches by 30 inches (76×76
cm), depending upon the breed.
