I am going to make some nest boxs for my daughters Dutch rabbits I will be using plywood how big do they need to be for Dutch rabbits? I was thinking about 18\'\' long 8\'\' tall and 10\'\' wide ,front wall 6\'\' tall ,no top. will this be ok ? thanks
fireboy
A good size nest box for a Dutch rabbit is: 14\"long x 9\"wide x 8\"high. Nest boxes are a case where more is not necessarily better. A more compact nest box encourages the doe to keep her litter consolidated (some does make two nests in the same box - not good) and discourages her using the box as a place to lounge (increased risk of mashing the kits). Ideally, the doe makes a nest, kindles the litter, and then hops in once or twice a day for a quick nursing session, hopping out as soon as she\'s finished.
The size nest box you are talking about is more suitable for a commercial-type breed. The absence of a top, however, is the best design. I discourage even partial covers.
Charlcie Gill
Zodiac Rabbitry
Astoria, OR
http://www.zodiacsatins.com