Last weekend, I bought a trio of Khaki Campbells. I didn't buy them on a whim n fancy, I have done some research and thought I was ready and informed.
They are last years hatch (whatever that means!) and I have been blessed with an egg since they landed.
Tonight, I braved free ranging them at the same time as my chooks: no issues. When it came time to "herd" them 'home', they bolted to my back porch! Now, on the one hand, that was cool; I could catch each one and return them all home. But, after 5 days, I had hoped they would find their way home to their house!!!???
Next FR session is due on Saturday. Once again it will be scheduled around dusk time.
When I had captured them, returned them to their quarters, I took the opportunity of holding each of the trio for a few minutes so they can get used to the fact I = food/security. Was that right????
I know they are a prolific egg breed, but have a skitish/nervouse nature.
It is my intention (albeit, early days!) that they can FR with my chooks and learn to recognise me with food/water/safety; not fearfulness or threat.
So, how did you win over your KC's to understand you are not a threat but on their side? I do not expect them to be cuddle bunnies - that is not their nature - but I would like them to understand where 'home' is and that I am not *the* enemy around here!
Any and all advice welcome and appreciated: thank you.
They are last years hatch (whatever that means!) and I have been blessed with an egg since they landed.
Tonight, I braved free ranging them at the same time as my chooks: no issues. When it came time to "herd" them 'home', they bolted to my back porch! Now, on the one hand, that was cool; I could catch each one and return them all home. But, after 5 days, I had hoped they would find their way home to their house!!!???
Next FR session is due on Saturday. Once again it will be scheduled around dusk time.
When I had captured them, returned them to their quarters, I took the opportunity of holding each of the trio for a few minutes so they can get used to the fact I = food/security. Was that right????
I know they are a prolific egg breed, but have a skitish/nervouse nature.
It is my intention (albeit, early days!) that they can FR with my chooks and learn to recognise me with food/water/safety; not fearfulness or threat.
So, how did you win over your KC's to understand you are not a threat but on their side? I do not expect them to be cuddle bunnies - that is not their nature - but I would like them to understand where 'home' is and that I am not *the* enemy around here!
Any and all advice welcome and appreciated: thank you.
