Layer Nests, which are simply enclosed, darkened boxes with an opening on one side, provide a safer place for eggs to be laid than on the floor where they could be stepped on. Fencing off the corners of the chicken house, providing at least one Layer Nest per four hens, and keeping clean bedding in the nests will encourage the hens to lay their eggs there. Closing the nests at night and collecting the eggs at least twice a day will also reduce egg breakage and keep the nests cleaner.