Chick-in-a-Box, however, was the catalyst for something else: a fun DIY book, “Reinventing the Chicken Coop,” published this month by Storey.

We've got one of the best predator proof chicken coop plans. This portable predator proof chicken coop DIY is low-cost and easy to make for just about anyone.

It can also affect the cleanliness of your nesting boxes. Too many vying for the same box increases the likelihood of broken egg messes and a build-up of waste.

Looking to raise chickens at home? This DIY tutorial walks you through building a simple and budget-friendly chicken cage that offers both safety and comfort for your flock. Perfect for beginners ...

In the meantime, they've moved their chickens to a new $250 prefabricated coop. "It's an A-frame shape and has little nesting boxes and is fine for three small hens, but it's not very big," Jane says.

Many Aussie backyards are home to a number of chooks, but it's an annoying fact that they like to lay eggs in places not restricted to their fancy nesting boxes.