How to make chickens more cuddly?

[fivechicks715]

I am new to owning chickens, ours were born this past April (27 to be exact). So they are fairly young. They all let me hold them, some more happily than others, but only one will lay on me like this, and not for long. I would like to get them to like being held more, or be more friendly and cuddly - any tips on how, if possible.

I have 3 orpingtons, a barred rock and a Rhode Island Red.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Habriel]

Treats. Especially watermelon. My chickens will tackle me for watermelon!

 

[MochaDuck]

What I do is sit on the ground and keep the food close to me. Make sure there's no other food around. After they get that close to you, gradually (while they're eating) pull it closer to you. Eventually, try having them eat while your hold the food container, then guide them into their lap. My glutinous chickens didn't even realize they were on my lap at first

 

[fivechicks715]

Treats. Especially watermelon. My chickens will tackle me for watermelon!

Thank you they do love watermelon

 

[fivechicks715]

What I do is sit on the ground and keep the food close to me. Make sure there's no other food around. After they get that close to you, gradually (while they're eating) pull it closer to you. Eventually, try having them eat while your hold the food container, then guide them into their lap. My glutinous chickens didn't even realize they were on my lap at first

Thank you I will try this!

 

[LozzyR]

I can't get anywhere near my two pullets during the day, but at dusk when they have gone to bed, I can pat my Barred Rock and she will start making a purring noise, sink down and half-close her eyes. I can pick her up and give her a cuddle, but she endures it more than likes it, I think. The Australorp will sometimes get up and move away if I stroke her, sometimes she will stay put. She freaks out a bit if I go to pick her up so I'm just stroking her until she gets more used to that. I would like to cuddle my girls more too, so I might try the food trick. One of my Isa Browns is really friendly and I can pick her up any time, but she won't sit in my lap if I sit down.

 

[Aunt Angus]

I find that some chickens just aren't super cuddly. Of my 5 big girls, 2 (Barred Rock and Buff Brahma) will sit on my lap or shoulder, 1 (Buff Orp) will tolerate it, and 2 (Cochin and Welsummer) want no part of it. They are individuals.