5 month old RRs

[lin1118]

Just picked up 3 5mo. old RR pullets. Have fenced in yard and coop set up. I know from past chickens that I will have to round them up at night since they were not raised in a coop, but for how long?
Have them 2-1/2 days and I'm getting tired of running around in the near dark. Am going to leave them locked in their coop for a good part of today, but they are very skittish. I go out there 4-5 x a day to talk to them and try to get them near to me, but no luck Any suggestions? I am going to put a light in for the night hoping they will go in....but ????? suggestions of any kind would be appreciated.

 

[Mrs. K]

Actually the light is a good idea, and might be all you need. I would not be surprised if they are in there tonight. Once mine have stayed in the coop over night, if there is good roosting, they have always gone back.

If not, get a stick or something that can reach the ground. Turn the light on in the coop, then place yourself with the chickens between you and the door. Don't run, just tap the ground and the chickens should move toward the door. Do not move until they stop. Then take another slow step again tap the ground, and they should move away toward the coop. This is a case of slow is fast.

If one gets by you, leave it. It will want to get with the hens, and come back. A little patience and they will go in.

As for calming them, sitting quietly in the run, or near the run, and let them approach you is the best. They will settle down soon.

Mrs K

 

[aart]

It's usually best to leave new birds in the coop and run for a good week before allowing them to free range, this 'homes' them to the coop and becomes their 'safe' place and they will automatically go there once it start to get dark.

Having lots of windows for good light and ventilation is important...even then a battery operated light in the coop near dusk will help guide them into the coop, then turn it off when you lock up after dark.

 

[lin1118]

Thanks to all...my "genius" girls got locked up for about 5 hrs the next day and stroll in at night....no issues. Have them a little over a week now, they don't hide when I come in to bring their food but still not coming out to greet me and my treats. Am assuming they will get the idea : crazy lady = food, and start coming closer, any thoughts on egg laying time?

 

[Backyard Bruce]

Should be very soon. My RIR's are just at 5 months and started laying sporadically last week, now I'm getting 3 small eggs a day from 4 RIR's

 

[aart]

any thoughts on egg laying time?

When they are darn well and ready!
Here's how to tell....
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/who-is-laying-and-who-is-not-butt-check.73309/