Yes, I have been doing this. They certainly think I have food when they see my hands, because they peck on my fingers when I lower my hand into their enclosure. Especially the ones with nail polish on them, and of course (you are right Foxhound lady,) they love trying to eat my wedding ring...
My husband and I are going to raise 4 chickens in our backyard. I would like to be able to handle them safely, and not have them be afraid of me. Is there any way I can get them to want to be held? We have them sectioned off in our master bath at the moment, and I like to bring them outside...