Docile birds now more aggressive

[bmill88]

My 3 chickens used to be more docile, they would let you pet them. But now as they have gotten older they are a bit more aggressive and want to try to peck me when I try to pet them. They are 15 weeks old as of Saturday and they are barred rocks, which are known for being friendlier chickens. How to I train them to be friendlier like they used to be?

 

[lazy gardener]

They are going through the cranky teen stage. They may become more approachable after they start laying.

 

[bmill88]

They are going through the cranky teen stage.  They may become more approachable after they start laying.

Are they really like that? I had no idea they can be hormonal teens. All of their voices have changed already, how soon are they to laying eggs?

 

[Mrs. K]

I agree with the first poster, they become very skittish, and later will calm down again.

 

[bmill88]

Ok I just put them to bed in their coop because they roost on a little table at dusk until it gets nighttime. They were very docile and let me pet them, even hold them for a bit. Are they more docile when they are sleepy/tired?

 

[Mrs. K]

yes a lot of people wait to handle them until they are asleep as they are very trance like. And like teenagers, they love to stay out till late.

 

[KidsandGuineas]

I have barred rocks so good to know what to expect soon!

 

[CluckerCottage]

My 16 month old barred rock hens are very chill. They come running to me when I sit on the picnic table bench; they jump up on the table and want attention and treats!
They went through the teenage phase as well. It gets better.