The second type of nest is for brooding. Nests for brooding must be individual nests. These nests need to be placed in a quiet, dark place where the hens feel safe and are not disturbed. Food and water should be placed nearby to limit time away from the nest so the hatchability of the eggs remains high. Both types of nests may be baskets made of local fiber, cardboard or wooden boxes, or clay pots. The nest should not be too big or the hen will not feel comfortable. Nests need to be padded with clean, dry material such as straw, leaves, old cloth, or sand. This will keep the eggs warm and help prevent damage to the eggs. Nesting material should be changed each week if possible. Mixing ash, tobacco leaves or anti-parasitic products and then sprinkling on nests will reduce the chance of external parasites. Nests should be fumigated with smoke/neem 2-3 times each year. If there has been a serious outbreak of disease or infestation of external parasites, the nests and padding material should be burnt and then replaced using fresh materials.