How do you pet a chicken?

[ChooksChick]

When I walk out mine bolt 250 feet across the yard as fast as they can, wings raised, and fight over who gets prime position in my lap...sometimes I have 3 there. Mine also like to be carried around football-style, cradled in the elbow. One girl won't stand for me to ignore her and she'll peck/pull with her beak at my clothes until I pick her up, the cute little bully!

I feel loved.

 

[Attack Chicken]

My leghorn loves to be petted. He's so loving.

 

[my first peepers]

My 4 EEs are all different...one is very curious and friendly to one that squaks and runs away like you're trying to murder her. My one SLW doesn't like to be held but will perch on my leg to be petted.
Of course they all like me a lot when I have treats!

 

[The Chicken Lady]

Quote:
My roosters always enjoyed this, especially the wattles. I also would pet their neck hackle feathers.

When you hold a chicken, make sure that its feet are held up so that it doesn't feel like it's hanging in midair. While it's getting used to being petted, it is a good idea to keep its wings secure so that it doesn't flap and flail around.

 

[debilorrah]

I have one BO that jumps up and down right in front of me but won't let me pick her up unless I catch her. When I catch her she is so calm and makes really nice noises. I love that darned chicken.

 

[LoneCowboy]

My chickens aren't that social. They love their treats and will always come running when I go outside but they won't let me hold them. Well, except for my little Lily, and she'll eat out of my hand too. I think she's earned a place for life here. The others get rotated to new homes at about 18 months so it's a good thing they aren't that social. It would be hard to say goodbye.