Confused Chickens

[paraisomistfarms]

Hey everyone!

We picked up our very first chickens yesterday from a big operation about an hour from our home. Our hens are four months old and look happy and healthy; however, they were cage raised and seem completely lost and confused about how to be chickens! Will they eventually figure out how to use to roosting bars? The nest boxes?

Is there any way I can make sure they’re adjusting well? I did read that a rooster is good for this, but I have zero interest in acquiring a rooster, so that option is out. Haha!

Would love any insight anyone might have. I’ve attached a picture of the pretty ladies for your enjoyment!

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Keep them in the coop for several days. Add some fake eggs or golf balls in the nesting boxes. You may have to put them on the roosts in the evenings to teach them where to go. They will soon learn to enjoy their new life!
Kuddos to you for giving them a better life!!!

 

[LittleRedCoopLady]

Hey everyone!

We picked up our very first chickens yesterday from a big operation about an hour from our home. Our hens are four months old and look happy and healthy; however, they were cage raised and seem completely lost and confused about how to be chickens! Will they eventually figure out how to use to roosting bars? The nest boxes?

Is there any way I can make sure they’re adjusting well? I did read that a rooster is good for this, but I have zero interest in acquiring a rooster, so that option is out. Haha!

Would love any insight anyone might have. I’ve attached a picture of the pretty ladies for your enjoyment! View attachment 2109257

We got 4 Golden Comet pullets last year who were also raised in a cage. They were the friendliest chickens we've ever had, however they were skittish to go outside and wouldn't roost. After a few weeks, they finally started sleeping in the coop and not in the run. However, some never got the hang of the roost and chose to sleep in the nest box. I think with time and consistency yours will get the hang of being a chicken! lol

 

[rosemarythyme]

Since they're not used to a coop setting, they will need some time to get used to it. Let them explore and adjust to the setting at whatever speed is comfortable for them.

 

[paraisomistfarms]

Quite a few must have roosted last night, there was poop on the roosting bars! Woohoo!

 

[Granitestater]

Hey everyone!

We picked up our very first chickens yesterday from a big operation about an hour from our home. Our hens are four months old and look happy and healthy; however, they were cage raised and seem completely lost and confused about how to be chickens! Will they eventually figure out how to use to roosting bars? The nest boxes?

Is there any way I can make sure they’re adjusting well? I did read that a rooster is good for this, but I have zero interest in acquiring a rooster, so that option is out. Haha!

Would love any insight anyone might have. I’ve attached a picture of the pretty ladies for your enjoyment! View attachment 2109257

I agree for you to lift them to the perch bars and show them what to do. Also have read to put the fake eggs in the nest boxes so they get the association. Your chicken house is wonderful even w a window! btw suggest you get that book "how to speak chicken"; they really respond to you doing those chicken phrases. Seems to comfort and reassure them. Btw I have 2 roosters and my girls love them. The boys protect the girls. They work very hard at their job so I respect them greatly. Enjoy your wonderful babies!

 

[paraisomistfarms]

GREAT NEWS! We now lay eggs in the boxes. Two days in a row without floor eggs! My stern discussion with them (and maybe the strategically placed golf balls) must’ve helped!