Best way to handle chicks

[alyssaplavigne]

My 5 five day old barred rock girls don't seem to like when I handle them. They run. I try my best not to chase them or corner them and I have lots of patience. I just don't want them to think that they can get out of me handling them. I have one that kind of trusts me so she's good when I pet her but when I go to pick her up she scrambles. Just wondering how you experienced people handle this is it best to pick them up when there sleeping or when they wake up for food, water and play time.... Thanks you! <3

 

[Firekin1]

No matter how you pick them up they will run...they don't know whether you're friendly or gonna eat them..remember, to them you're huge...lol...eventually they'll calm down, some might faster than others...

 

[AwesomeFacer]

I find they like to have their feet supported, and it's key that you not hurt a wing or squeeze. I found last night, between eating and bedtime, if I moved very my hand very slowly and put a finger in front of their legs, they'd perch. Then, I cupped the other hand over it, and lifted very slowly. The closer it was to sleep, the easier it went. My goal is to get them used to being held; we've had them about a week and I think they're between 2-3 weeks old. I also find that if I whistle when they cry, they calm down quicker.

 

[AwesomeFacer]

. For example... This rando fell asleep in my fella's hand.

 

[alyssaplavigne]

Awesome advice!! Thank you so much!! I agree that's a perfect time. I just never wanted to bother them when they were doing their own thing. I guess since it's normal Ahahaha I will try that tonight! I love how they play. They wake up and go to sleep all at the same time

 

[ChickenLegs13]

I speak to them then just reach down and grab them, holding their wings against their body so they can't flap and get excited. They get used to it after a while.

 

[BexB]

My chicks have mommies so I dont handle them that much( not that I dont want to, mommy wont let me)but every morning I go with the food and i hold out a hand full before I feed them ,and in the evening I take the treats they now come running to me .Food is the way to almost any animals heart.and thats how I caught my husband!

 

[alyssaplavigne]

I guess I need to get some chick grit to start treating them

 

[alyssaplavigne]

Update: gave my chicks grit today. They love that!!! Wouldn't even show interest in apple, strawberry, or greens. Why would that be? They are 8 days now and still not warming up to me very much :/ is it just me or am I being way to impatient :/ thanks for all the advice again

 

[Pinkaboo]

Update: gave my chicks grit today. They love that!!! Wouldn't even show interest in apple, strawberry, or greens. Why would that be? They are 8 days now and still not warming up to me very much :/ is it just me or am I being way to impatient :/ thanks for all the advice again

I think chick are bound to be nervous we are so big next to them
I put my hand into the brooder and they started perching on it
I found to pick them up they preferred putting my fingers under their chest and lifting them
I guess they feel less restricted
Don't give up