hens that squat

[lauras ladies]

I am fairly new to having chickens and was just wondering if anyone can tell my why they squat down in front of me when I enter the coup..it's almost like they want me to 'pet' them (which i do) Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[ponyup]

You must not have roosters. That is "assuming the position" you could say they are looking for fertilizer. They may stop once spring time is gone.

 

[gryeyes]

It's a submission thing; they are submitting to "the rooster" so "he" can mount more easily.

When my gals squat for me, I give 'em a skritch between the shoulder/wing blades, one down by the base of their tail feathers, and then a pat on the middle of their backs. I always tell 'em, "Good girl!"

I love it when they give a shake of all their feathers right afterwards. I call that maneuver "getting rid of the bed feathers look." It is actually the method they use to move the sperm up into their bodies. It's instinctive, whether or not they were actually bred or not.

I prefer to think of "bed feathers" though. Can't let the other hens know what they just enjoyed.

 

[lauras ladies]

Thanks so much for the info. I'll give your methods a try, I'm sure they will love it!!!