Handling Buff Orpingtons

[jennapoole]

Hey y'all. I've had my BOs for 5 months now and they won't let me touch them or pick them up. I got them when they were in their 'rapture' stage so I never got to handle them as chicks. They get really close to me and will eat out of my hand but as soon as I reach out to touch them they scare away. I chose BO because they're suppose to be very friendly and touchable. Any ideas/help?

 

[sunflour]

I have had mine since they were 3 days old - now nearly 2 yo hens. One is quite skittish - other 2 are very friendly, but if I try to handle them when I am standing or bending, they move away. If I sit they walk on me and don't run.

I think it is instinct to fear all from above. Try sitting on something low - upturned bucket - or if you are brave, just on the ground. Hold their favorite treats and let them come to you.

 

[jane s chickens]

My 2 orp. roos wouldn't come near me even when I was sitting, but they would come up to my 11 month old granddaughter in her entertainer and eat her puffs. She could touch them and they wouldn't be scared.

 

[jennapoole]

Got to handle both my orps tonight. They got stuck in the woods after dark. They couldn't see me reaching down to get them. I loved holding them but they were definitely concerned.