I know that chickens will go to bed automatically at dusk, but sometimes I need to get them to go in early. Offering treats may work at first, but over time they get suspicious and also it is hard to see treats in a dark henhouse. I discovered this simple solution.They respond almost magically if I hold my arms out to my sides at about a 45º angle, palms open toward them and then I walk calmly toward them, herding them to the door. They all just calmly hop in, single file, no fuss. I can get them in 30 to 40 minutes early this way.
ps: further clarification, I get behind them, then I look steadily at the door where I want them to go, not at them, and have my feet pointed to the door as well. I don't say a thing.
ps: further clarification, I get behind them, then I look steadily at the door where I want them to go, not at them, and have my feet pointed to the door as well. I don't say a thing.
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