How to win over skittish hens

[Chick_Lit123]

I'm a relatively experienced chicken person, but these are my first (golden) wyandots. These girls (only two) are so skittish! I've tried everything: special treats, talking in a soft voice, making sure my border collie is nowhere in sight. She was accompanying me to the coop in the past, so the hens may have associated my voice with the dreaded collie... but i changed that. Ordinarily, I have my hens eating out of my hands, but these girls are still petrified of me. Is there anything I can do? They're about 3 months. I have raised them exactly like I have others in the past: they have a lovely coop, fresh water, great run, good feed. etc.

Actually, the only difference with these ladies is they are amidst a rooster, which I just discovered this morning at 5:15 when I heard him crow!! He's a different breed and is very placid. Does that have anything to do with their skittish behavior?? He's the same age. Thanks!!

 

[gritsar]

Time and patience and lots of treats.

 

[Chick_Lit123]

ok, thanks. i'll keep at it. i have noticed some improvement: they stop and peer at me when they hear my voice, but if I come closer they get frantic again. Treats, it is!!

 

[dianaross77]

Meal worms are good for treats. I like the SUPER worms from the pet store. They are disgusting and huge but the chickens absolutely love them.