Baby Silkies are scared of people. Help!

[bockchickas]

So I bought two silkie chicks at 3 weeks of age, and they are terrified of humans. Run to the back of the cage, and chirp like crazy when separated. They don't seem to settle down at all. This is very different behavior than my other pullets which I've raised since 3 days old. My others are super friendly, don't run or freak out and are easily handled and enjoy attention. I've had these two babies for 3 weeks, hand feeding them live mealworms, and they are still scared to death. Is there any hope? I wanted the silkie breed b/c I've read how sweet and personable they are. What can I do?

 

[Cack-a-doodle]

Be slow and gentle and eventually they will trust you

 

[hen-questioner]

It would be good just in the morning just stay with them for a while just to let them get used to you being there and let them gain your trust

 

[Emma Miriam]

Hand feeding them is a good start. It sounds like they're old enough to be away from the brooder for a bit, so try this. Put them in a small pen outdoors (you can make one by wrapping chicken wire in a circle), but make the pen big enough that you can sit cross-legged in it too. Put them in with feed and water, and sit down with some treats in your lap. Try to stay still and don't grab at the chicks or stick your hand out...just let them come to you. With any luck, eventually their curiosity will get the better of them, and they'll flap up on your lap and eat the treats. This is a good way to give the chicks the initiative and get them more used to you. Even very friendly chicks will often get scared if you try to pick up or pet them, so this is a better way to start.

Hope that helps!