Imprinting

[amaranth320]

I know chicks are supposed to imprint on the first big thing they see, but is this fairly instantaneous, or does it take a little while? We're getting our day-old chicks tomorrow, and I'm just wondering if it's already too late for them to imprint, since they're likely to have seen plenty of big people before we pick them up from the feed store.

 

[Gonzo]

I've not heard that... Learn something new everyday! Well, I wouldn't worry too much about that. Them babies will latch onto you in no time. Just be sure to handle them daily, it will take a bit, don't get discouraged! They just have to figure it all out. They'll be chirpping happily when they see you, and eating out of your hand before you know it! Good Luck! I hope I've helped.

 

[chickenwhisperer123]

I always thought that was just ducklings...

 

[amaranth320]

I'm not sure...I've only heard it as a "wive's tale" kind of thing. I think it's most strong in birds like ducks and geese, but according to Wikipedia, imprinting was first documented in domestic chickens!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imprinting_(psychology)

Cool, huh?

 

[Gonzo]

Well, that'd explain why all mine are dingbats!

 

[Mac in Wisco]

Quote:
That's interesting. I'd only heard of it with ducks and geese.