I have four golden-laced cochins...4 week old chicks that I strongly believe are pullets based on comb color/size. One of them appears to bow and squat when I put my hand in the brooder. She always runs over to me and after bowing and squatting, jumps in my hand. This is EVERY time I put my hand in the box. Does this behavior mean anything...like confirming that she is a pullet??
I have two year old Rhode Island Reds & Golden Sex-Links. The behavior you're describing sounds like the same thing my hens do when I try to pick them up. Their wings sort of flare up at their sides and they 'hunker down' as if trying to avoid being 'attacked' by something, or someone. After a bit they calm down and return to normal. Is this correct?