Handling

[PulletMama]

Howdy!
LOVE this website!!! I was hoping for advice on handling my three day old chicks - 3 Amber Links and 3 Red Pullets. The reds are smaller and one seemed a bit sluggish yesterday, however he's full of pep now and the Amber Links are full of antics...already!
Anyway, I read somewhere not to handle them for about 24 hours after bringing them home, but I also heard I should wait at least a week. Any thoughts on the matter?
Also, when I go in to check on them or clean/refill water and food containers I whistle to them. This seems to stop them in their tracks. But if I talk, they run and peep their little heads off.
I don't want to stress them, especially the "runt" but I can hardly wait to interact with them.
Any advice?

 

[chicklover16]

Wait a week? Nonsense, hold them and cuddle them as much as you have time to, it will improve thier charachter immensly.

 

[cafarmgirl]

I agree with the part about leaving them be the first 24 hours to let them rest up. Other then that, I've never waited a week to handle chicks. Usually somebody or other will get a poopy butt that needs cleaning before that anyway!

 

[Cotton42]

Yep, the idea that you have to wait to handle them is total rubbish. Hold them as much as you like! They are only little for a few days anyway, might as well enjoy it!

 

[chicken pickin]

Agreed. I handle mine multiply times a day since babies. I did hold off for the first day because they came by mail and i wanted them to have time to unstress. But then it was hands on. Me the kids hubby other family members. They are almost 5 weeks now and love love love people (beside the 3 shyer ones) they jump up on hands arms shoulders heads most dont mind getting scooped up or petted. Yesterday I was sitting at the brooder and one of my barred rocks jumped up and snuggled herself up under my chin for a quick nap. I love my chicks.

 

[Fierlin1182]

Absolutely, jump right in. It helps them get used to people anyhow, our chickens come running to us now because they grew up being around us. Makes for good 'lap chickens' later.

 

[felidaet]

I agree. Handle them as much as you can. I don't wait. I start handling them as soon as I get them.

 

[PulletMama]

Many thanks for the replies.
Before I read the last post I was in with the chicks and picking them up!!! I truly do LOVE this site!