Biting pullet

[Willow2253]

I have a buff orpington pullet, 6 or 7 months old, who likes to bite people. It’s not attack biting, it’s more like trying to grab a treat even though I don’t have any. She’ll run up to anyone she sees and look at them expectantly. She’s fine with being petted and picked up, but given the opportunity she’ll peck at fingers and clothes like they’re tasty snacks. And she bites hard. She doesn’t do it to other chickens, just people. It’s not a big deal right now because it’s winter and we’re wearing thicker clothes, but I don’t want this habit to continue into the summer when instead of pants she’ll be biting bare legs and arms. Any ideas on how I can curb this behavior? I don’t hand feed them very often, and have a specific spot that I give treats and food scraps, and I’ve started pushing her away when she gets in biting range.

 

[azygous]

Yes. It's simple to train this behavior out of her. Using the method of discipline chickens use among themselves, peck her on the back with one or two of your fingers simulating a beak when she engages in bad behavior. Chickens get this message loud and clear. You need to follow through when she repeats it. Soon, the behavior will annoy you no more.

 

[ladyhand]

Thank you! I’m having the same issue with mine right now. Did the suggestion work?

 

[Willow2253]

She’s definitely biting less, she still gets excited once in a while, but she gets the message pretty quick once I peck her back.

 

[ladyhand]

I have three very affronted pullets this morning… how DARE I think they’ve done ANYTHING wrong?!

In their defense, I did just get my nails done a different color (orange and blue - let’s go Gators!), but they are going to have to learn mommy’s fingers aren’t for eating.