Getting chicks used to handling

[kattperson]

Hey y'all! I just got my first chicks, and I'm wondering what tips/tricks y'all have for getting them used to me? I've been sticking my hand in their brooder and leaving it there, sometimes with feed and sometimes not, but I'd love some advice!

 

[ChickNanny13]

That's a good start ... Instead of grabbing them, I "scoop" them. From the front/chest, using two fingers between their legs. You can then use your thumb & free fingers to secure them. Also when a bit older (month) I used MW (dried mealworms) in a plastic container, shake & give them some with your hand or on ground. That way they relate the sound of shaking to getting MW ... they'll come running.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

When i had chicks, I’d always handle them and talk to them every day multiple times. That’s what worked for me. Ended up with some SUPER friendly birds!

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

I don't have time to play with my chicks every day lol but I have friendly hens because I feed them treats from my hand when they're older. I don't put much thought into it actually so I'm surprised they like me at all haha. I have also learned which breeds have a mild temperament and tend to stick with those (no RIRs for me though I have known friendly ones). When they are getting their feathers they don't really like to be handled so that leaves just a little time when they're tiny. After that I let them do their thing unless I have to handle them and by the time I start feeding them treats from my hand they warm right up.

 

[Poodlemum]

For us, it’s been pretty hit or miss. We cuddle them a bunch and some just aren’t people birds… The EE that lived in my shirt for ages is super skittish and the Sapphire Gems we barely handled are all about climbing on us. These bantams have been real snugglers so far and my first hatched chicks are pretty sweet too

 

[Dakota8472]

That's a good start ... Instead of grabbing them, I "scoop" them. From the front/chest, using two fingers between their legs. You can then use your thumb & free fingers to secure them. Also when a bit older (month) I used MW (dried mealworms) in a plastic container, shake & give them some with your hand or on ground. That way they relate the sound of shaking to getting MW ... they'll come running.

the scoop is pretty good for me so far. but the really flappy 3 jumpy ones make me have to get em differently if i dont want them to get off the ride quickly