i only have 2 nesting boxes, and i started out with 5 hens. now i have 8, and they all find their place, although i should put in at least 1, if not 2 more. don't forget to include a nice heating lamp in there for the winter. you're gonna want a nice ceramic heat lamp that just gives off heat and no light, they cost about $50 for a decent one. we've tried using the ones that give off a little dark light and our chickens couldn't sleep, they are very light sensitive creatures.