Chickens crouching down when we go near them

[09northernchick]

They never did this before. Why now and for what reason. They have been handled a lot, though would normally still run the other direction from us unless we had food. But since they started laying when we go near them (when they are running free) or when we pat them in the run, they crouch right down and stand still.

Is this due to fear or because they think we are roosters?

 

[redhen]

It means they are getting ready to lay eggs! Enjoy! Its called Squatting..

edited: ha! i'm sorry, i see they are already laying..DUH!
and yes, it means they think you are the roo...

 

[CityClucks]

They think you are roosters! Take the opportunity to reach down and pet them.

 

[fshinggrl]

Yep, eggs coming soon!!! The kids enjoy this because it means they can pick them up w/o chasing! They do think you are roosters!

 

[mk4lh]

I had to laugh the first time I had one of my ladies do that, it was almost like a cat when you pet them down their back, the way they would arch up. I got my first egg about a week after the squatting started.

 

[Happy Chooks]

They want you to have your way with them.

Just pet their backs a few times and they will shake it off. It also makes it REALLY easy when you have to catch them. And eggs will be coming soon.