Is this normal?

[WhitsChicks]

I have 15 chickens, and a big feeder that's always full of food, they get to free range 90% of the time from sunrise to sunset.
My question, is it normal that every time I walk outside they come running like they're starving and expecting a feast?

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I have 15 chickens, and a big feeder that's always full of food, they get to free range 90% of the time from sunrise to sunset.
My question, is it normal that every time I walk outside they come running like they're starving and expecting a feast?

Yes - entirely normal - especially if you have conditioned them to think that (unintentionally or not)

 

[Ozarkhomesteader]

They are most likely not hungry...just want some treats or something

Just to be safe, after they go and roost at night, go in and feel their crops. they should feel full. If they are full, they are getting enough. Good luck

Oh, and mine are always full at the end of the day, and they still come running at me like mad men.

 

[donrae]

My teenage boys can eat a full meal, but then I walk in the door with grocery bags and they're starving.....kinda the same thing

 

[jtn42248]

Perfectly normal. I like to think it is because they love me and missed me. But, the truth is that they think I may have some treat or something they think they just can't live without.

 

[WhitsChicks]

Thanks for all the input and assurance. Never thought about feeling the crop to make sure it's full, but I'll start doing that from here on out.

 

[Ozarkhomesteader]

Thanks for all the input and assurance. Never thought about feeling the crop to make sure it's full, but I'll start doing that from here on out.

Your welcome you don't need to do it all the time, mostly if you think there is a problem, like if maybe they are keeping one away from the food or something.