flighty new chicks

[alixmarie]

We have had our jersey giant chicks for almost 2 weeks now.They are still running and trying to fly away when we go to hold them or go near them. Is there anything we can do to get them more used to us.

 

[OneToManyChickens]

Try hand feeding them or spending time by them talking. This should get them used to you and help them understand you are not a threat.

 

[alixmarie]

Okay thank you I try to hand feed they don’t want it but maybe i’ll try some treats

 

[igorsMistress]

Chicks think you're a predator if you suddenly appear above them and start reaching for them. Try sitting down and letting them come to you. No sudden movement or reaching to hold them or treats or anything. Just sit. They are very curious and won't be able to ignore you for long. Then introduce treats once they're comfortable with you just being there.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Don't go after them, let them come to you. That requires patience. Take a chair and read a book. Don't make any sudden moves. Scatter some treats around you. It may take several days but eventually they will come around.

One mistake people often make is trying to grab them from above. They have an instinctive fear of flying predators. If you do pick them up, try to move your hands at their level, not from above. Some people do tame their chicks by handling them but I think the patient way is better, less stressful for them.

 

[Acre4Me]

Chickens are prey animals and they are hard wired to flee any threat, including the hand that feeds them ... especially when coming from above and attached to a large human.

FWIW, they will be a bit like this until closer to lay. The hormones of laying seem to calm them down and they generally will be more calm. BJG are not known to be flighty. We’ve had BJG for a couple of years, both male and female, and they are pretty calm overall.

Keep trying to get them used to you. Some feed in your hand, etc. by the time they begin to lay you will likely have some friendly birds.

 

[alixmarie]

Thank you everyone for your advice I really appreciate it !!!!