How much should I handle my chicks?

[tmf321]

My first hens were older pullets before I acquired them and were very flighty and scared of people so I assume they weren't handle much as chicks. Over time they came to learn that people = food and now they run over towards us anytime we open the back door. We even had one plucky gal who would use her beak to peck the glass door whenever she saw my husband sitting at the table because she associated him with treats. They gladly eat out of our hands and follow us around but prefer not to be picked up.

All this to say, even if you don't handle them as chicks they can still learn to enjoy your company

 

[K0k0shka]

I handled mine a LOT since they hatched, and they’re fine, very people-friendly! I wish I handled them even more... jealous of people having chicks sleep on them or down their shirts... there’s only one thing stopping me from doing all that and it’s the POOP!!! Man, why do they need to poop on me whenever we cuddle? I’ve even had poop in my hair... cuz one of them loves to climb on me and perch up there