getting chickens used to being held

[brandichick]

I am a first time chicken owner. My chicks are approximately 6 weeks old. I have tried to handle them every day, I brought them out every evening and they slept on my lap on a towel. As they got bigger they started to crawl up onto my chest and shoulder and then sit next to me. Now they mostly sit next to me and they don't like it at all when I pick them up. I was always conscious of not trying to ever scare them or be forceful, so I would let them hop onto my hand or arm or pick them up then put them down immediately, but obviously i have not held them enough since they now object so much. I am in the same place where I don't want to scare them by holding them for a long time, their little hearts beat so fast and they try to flap their wings and I am afraid of them being traumatized. Any advice is appreciated

 

[RouttyChicks]

Chickens are not like dogs or cats. I think for the most part it would be a rare occasion for on to get really attached and cuddley and not be a bit spooked by it's owner. It's just the nature of chickens. Some will be more friendly than others though. My reds seems much more approachable than my whites. The white is very skiddish but once i get her she calms down and seems fine with being held. I too hold mine every day, talk to them and hand feed them just so they know i am not going to hurt them.

 

[huntseat]

Feeding treats (dried mealworms) can teach them that you are good to be around but chickens are not pets. However you can tame the little critters.

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Yes, it depends on breed. But, you should be holding, giving treats to and just bonding with them each day. I hold my babies when they are a few days old. Then I take them outside and teach them to follow me around when they are like a week. Then I hand feed them, cuddle, etc, etc as they get older. By the time they're grown they are following me everywhere, begging for treats, sleeping on my lap, eating out of my hand and even nuzzling my arm to pet them! Below are a few links you should explore too.

Best of luck!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/how-to-socialize-baby-chickens
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/how-to-raise-a-chicken-as-a-family-pet
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/the-all-new-how-to-train-your-chicken