Handling Chickens

[sammirae09]

My chickens are 4 1/2 months old and i haven't been able to handle and hold them since they were about 7 weeks old. Can't let them around the yard because of the dog. My husband is building me a bigger area outside out coop so they will have more room to roam, be safe from the dog lol, and that way i can start handling them again. Any tips or tricks on how to get them used to me holding them again so we can get a good bond? Right now they usually run from me when i stick my hands in the coop :-( I want to have a good relationship with my girls again, I'm out there everyday talking to them and such, but haven't been able to hold them in forever.

 

[MichStep]

I would like to know the same thing! I have about 5 or so girls that like me holding them but nothing due to me I have handled my chickens every scene I have had them just some deiced huh well I like you then others decide um no way are you gonna hold me.

 

[Adorkable]

My chickens are 4 1/2 months old and i haven't been able to handle and hold them since they were about 7 weeks old. Can't let them around the yard because of the dog. My husband is building me a bigger area outside out coop so they will have more room to roam, be safe from the dog lol, and that way i can start handling them again. Any tips or tricks on how to get them used to me holding them again so we can get a good bond? Right now they usually run from me when i stick my hands in the coop :-( I want to have a good relationship with my girls again, I'm out there everyday talking to them and such, but haven't been able to hold them in forever.

You can try treats. Mine love Kale, Swiss Chard, and I catch crickets and grasshoppers for them. Some of my chickens also like worms. But yeah just start by cutting up some kale or something into small bits and drop it not too far from your hand and then just keep bringing it closer and closer to you til they eat out of your hand and you can grab them and pet them a bit.

Another thing that I have noticed is that once they begin laying (I am assuming yours haven't laid eggs yet) they usually become much more friendly and start crouching down for you when you go to reach for them. So maybe give 'em a little time.

Also they are all individuals. By this I mean that some may never really allow you to pet them and pick them up, but others seem to love the extra attention!

Good luck, and let us know if you make any progress

-Jess