How do I catch and pick up older chicks?

[Backyard Hencam]

When my chicks were small, I'd just slip my hand under them, with their legs between my fingers and lift. Now that they are larger, I slip my hand under them and their wings fly out, flapping wildly.

Is there a good way to pick up older chicks? Do I have to use two hands, one on each side? It is getting increasingly hard to catch them in the brooder (to be taken outside for fresh air) now that they are nearly six weeks old. The tame ones walk over to my hand but when I go to lift them they act like I'm killing them.

Any suggestions?

 

[al6517]

It sounds as though they are still at an age where you can just grab them by the top of the back, that way they don't flap and they feel calmer when you have a good hold on them.

AL

 

[emilyweck]

Mine range from 8-17 weeks and I struggle with the bigger ones. However, I agree with AL. If you grab them around the top and sides with both hands, then they can't flap. Don't be afraid that you'll hurt them. They're just big babies and will make noise! They crack me up!