Americauna Personalities

[Attila the Hen]

I have 2 Americaunas and 2 Wyandottes that are about 16 weeks old. I am very embarressed to confess that I still bring them in at night. Tonight for the first time I tried to put them in the coop for the night. The Americaunas became hysterical and jumped on my shoulders hanging to me. They don't really like being picked up. They finally calmed down when I got them in the cat carrier to take into the house. I am a failure as a chicken mother. Not sure what to do. I can't stand to see them so upset.

 

[maidenwolfx80]

Aawww I think you are a great chicken mother,,, It is hard to see our little babies upset and scared. Anything new or that breaks routine is stressful for birds, they like and thrive on routine.You just have to put them in there and shut the door and go , they will settle down and go to sleep, try leaving the cat carrier so they have something familiar and to comfort them. We want what is best for them and trust me when you go open the coop door the next morning and they all run out chirping you will small and know your babies are growing up....

 

[Attila the Hen]

Well thank you. I did leave the carrier and the Wyandottes seemed pretty happy. It was the other two and one in particular that was so distressed. I think I will have to lock them in the carrier and another as they are outgrowing the one carrier.
My other problem is that I am not putting them inside the coop with the fierce old girls but put them on top of the box that is inside an open coop. Although it is covered in hardwire and I have dogs, I am not convinced they are as safe as the hens inside the house/box. I will work on it. I've got to free myself so I have a life and not be afraid to go away for a few days.My whole set up is not making this easy because the older hens need to get into the coop to lay so I leave the door open. This means the little ones could get taken by a hawk or beat up badly without supervision. Time............................

 

[maidenwolfx80]

It is difficult for sure, but theh longer you keep them in that crate the harder the transition will be. Introducing them with the established flock is tricky but can be done. If you section part or the run off so they can all get to know each other but cant get at each other is a great starting point.. They need to get used to one another. Getting your setup alittle more stable and safe is your best option here, that way everyone ( you included can live more freely) just remember you took on these animals and they rely on you for everything all the time. That is what is important.. Good luck I hope it works out for you