Eye pinning in chickens

[steffenbsd]

Hi everyone,
Tonight I was carrying my 15 week BR pullet around and noticed her pupils were rapidly dilating and contracting. Parrots do this when they are excited, aggravated or learning but I can't find any information about this behavior in chickens. Has anyone noticed this in their chickens? When does it happen?
I think she was either scared or expecting a treat. She can be a little skittish but has also just connected me with corn, sunflower and fruit and comes cautiously running when I come out in the yard. Curious to hear your thoughts!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Never noticed it in my chickens, will have to see if I see now. I am familiar with it from my Amazon parrot, who does it when excited.

 

[lastco]

Interesting topic! I used to pay attention to this when I had parrots since it's a good warning sign to avoid excitement induced biting. I guess I've never paid as much attention to my chickens' pupils, as they don't generally try to bite my face off. Lol.

I imagine they would do this for all the same reasons that parrots do. Any stimulation such as food, fear, excitement, etc. I'll pay more attention to mine and check back.