How often do you handle your chicks?

[Campine Lover]

as much as possible!!!!!! I used to read next to them, and have them on my lap while watching tv. (with a towel) and they love me!

 

[beergnome]

We have three 2-3 week old EE chicks that I try to handle a few times a day for 5 or 10 minutes each. I just want them to be as friendly and comfortable with us as possible. They really seem to like me now that I've been giving them mealworms, haha. Reminds me of the Mitch Hedberg quote: "I find a duck's opinion of me is very much influenced by whether or not I have bread."

 

[Sequin]

When I first bring them home we tend to spend the whole day with them; watching them and loving on them. I spend periods of time cuddling with them in the warmth of a heating pad and let them nestle down and fall asleep. Somehow, I think this helps them bond with me, it is very relaxing. We do this as often as possible over the next couple weeks. I have noticed a period after a couple weeks where they seem to spook easily, but then after about a week they change and start flocking to me as I am the one who provides food and water for them and they trust me again. But the more time you put into them, the more they will follow you and enjoy being with you.

 

[Kiwibird]

Mostly twice - once being transferred from brooder to outside pen, and once on the way back in. If they seem bothered by being held, I try to hold onto them till they settle.

 

[Beryl]

When babies are with mum is it ok to handle them ? I am so tempted but dont want to do the wrong thing ?

 

[SushiLove]

Handle them as often as you like!

 

[mamdoe]

Quote:
I love Mitch Hedberg....."Come here and let me hold one of you..."

I have been trying to hold them/or at least pick them up everytime I go out to the shop where their brooder is. Unfortunately my hubby put his foot down to keeping them in the house. They are a bit smelly, but his main reason is we have small children. Which is also why I can't spend too much time out with my chickies. I have a 7 month old thats attached at the hip! My 5 year old loves the chicks but is a little scared of holding them. The first time she did she got pooped on, it didn't go over very well.