Getting them in the coop

[salt and pepper]

I simply had to put them in the coop every night for two weeks, they started getting it after that =)

 

[lmattke]

I have heard that one way to train them to the coop is to pen them inside the coop for a couple of days, especially when they are young. That teaches them that the coop is home.

 

[Ashburnham]

I find young ones are reluctant to go into a dark coop.
A low wattage light in the coop for the first week or so really helps.


xxxx M

 

[leroychick]

It finally happened. After a week and a half of coaxing the chickens in the coop by shaking the bag of raisins at the door and then feeding them the raisins as they came into the coop, they finally went in the coop at dusk ALL BY THEMSELVES! Of course, after shutting the main door, I had to open the side door to give them all a raisin treat! Proud of my girls!!

 

[Sparkyfam]

My first flock knew exactly where the coop was, and that it was home. They also knew that if they perched on top of the run (we converted a dog run to a chicken run) that mom would come out and put them to bed. This was the far nicer option, cuz they got cuddles outta the deal and mom had to sludge threw the mud and they would squack loud as can be until someone put them to bed.. Apparently I forgot the lesson that the predators can hear you....

 

[JTifft]

We just opened our coop and getting them OUT is now the trick. We had to "evict" them for awhile so they could experience the brave new world. lol Going back in was NOT a problem. Put one out and one came right back in. lol We are hoping this game does not last too long.

 

[llandry]

You may have to herd them in or physically pick them up and put them inside the coop.  Once they learn this is their home and a safe place for them to roost, they will go in on their own.  Be patient!

this is what i did too. For the first two nights my husband and i had to herd them (which was so frustrating but really funny) and help them up the ramp and into the door. After two nights they just got it. Any time we've added chicks they just follow the leader. I agree with keeping the food and water in the coop to force them to go in and out.