Best way to catch a chicken....

[Mac]

Thanks to all of you and this website I was able to get enough information to start my "mite eradication" this weekend.

However, these 11 chickens have never been handled and clear out when I enter the coop. So, what to do to catch the chickens? I can't do it after they roost because despite new roosts they still fly up in the rafters to sleep. So, I can't do it at night. I can get them all inside the coop or outside in the run, separate. I hate to scare them to death, but it can't be avoided now. My husband will help me. I guess we just lock them in the coop, try to catch each one, dust them and let them out in the run area. That way we'll know if we got them all. Then keep them in the run while we clear out all the bedding and dust/spray the inside of the coop.

Any wise words on how not to freak them out while chasing them around the coop trying to get a hold of them? Or am I worrying too much and just catch them any way I can and get the dusting over with?

Mac

 

[bayourouge]

try using a net

 

[WoodlandWoman]

Do the best you can, be prepared for them to act like drama queens, try not to let it bother you and give them their favorite snack after you get them all dusted. Give yourself a nice beverage and a snack after you get done, too.

 

[schmoo]

Quote:
I agree. I had one bugger get out that I COULD NOT catch. I used my husbands large fishing net and cornered him. It worked great, just get them out to dust them A.S.A.P. because they freak out until you do.

 

[Wolfpacker]

Oops. Nevermind.