Chick Bonding

[konopswj]

So I have two silver pied chicks that were hatched on Memorial Day weekend. They are healthy and well, only problem? Can’t seem to get them to relax around me. I have them in a brooder in the house (helps to regulate their temperature) and try to make sure I spend time with them for a bit every day. I get them out, hold them, let them sit on my shoulder, sometimes they even fall asleep while I hold them… but the very next time I go to get them out they run from me, fly around, and make lots of noise.

I wonder if it’s because they are a pair and don’t need to bond with me or if they just don’t care to be handled. Was hoping they would become tame so as adults they would remain tame. What am I doing wrong or not doing at all?

Thanks,
Walter

 

[M.sue]

Hi There......You're not doing nothing wrong, they are baby chicks and baby chicks do that, ours did. Just keep visiting them and spending time with them. We always talk to our gals. They'll grow accustomed you in time and when they are big enough to be out in the coop they'll greet you at the gate when they hear you coming !!

 

[zazouse]

I have seen this in most all the birds i have raised and when they get older they settle down and no longer fear me,
i don't pick up many of my birds but i know each and every one here and there are some that come up and get real personal, i just let them come and viset and they loose the fear of me.

My peas are 10 months old and are just now getting to where they want to eat out of my hand if i offer and they use to be more confortable laying close to the dogs than me and that has changed.

I figure if the birds don't go around grabbing each other unless they are showing domonance then perhaps this is what they feel if we try to push ourselves on them ,so i let them learn to trust me with time.

 

[konopswj]

Thanks for the replies! I'll do just that and keep with it and hopefully they'll come around. I need to get them some good treats and maybe that will help. Right now all they get is water and medicated chick starter.

Thanks again,
Walter

 

[9farmgirl9]

Quote:
The one with the blu neck is gorgous!