Mean 3 wk old Cochin

[Kharmel]

My bantam Cochin attacks my hand whenever I reach in the cage. He crouches down, spins in circles then attacks! I want to nip this in the bud while he's still young. Any suggestions? It's kinda cute now but...............

Forgot to add that he also stomps his feet at me.

 

[TouchO'Lass]

Yikes! Sorry, can't help ya', but I really want cochins, so I'm standing by to hear what could be going on since they're normally supposed to be a sweet breed, roo's included...

 

[ginormous chicken]

Well, can you wear gardening gloves for a little while? Maybe if he sees that he doesn't get a real reaction from you he will stop trying. Maybe he is trying to push your buttons and if he gets used to the idea of your hand being in there he will stop thinking it as strange.

 

[Kharmel]

I thought Cochins were supposed to be easy going too! This guy isn't even fully feathered and I can tell it's a roo. His comb and wattles are already dark pink. The only reaction I have to his attacks are that I pick him up and hold him til he calms down. The pecking doesn't hurt yet but I need to figure out how to stop this behavior now.

 

[ginormous chicken]

I don't own any cochins ( that is a sad thing I know.) But, I think different roos exhibit different behaviors. As with the fact that not all Golden Retrievers are nice and doppy. Not every cochin roo can have the same personality. My advice is not to give in, but don't coddle him either. If he think that he pecks he will get picked up, he will keep pecking. Take him out normally and ignore the pecking. I have heard some people on BYC talk about how sweet roo roos can turn mean. It happens. Keep trying and don't give in.

 

[fatbassetvineyards]

My giant cochin roo is the best! He is very good even with the young chicks. He has never tried to come towards me but really watches his girls. I hope your gets better.
Can you try to hand feed him?

 

[Kharmel]

Quote:
I've tried to hand feed him treats and he won't touch them. I've got him and a Polish pullet. Neither one of them will eat treats. I tried scrambled eggs, and then today gave them a slice of tomato. They ignore all food other than their chick starter. Strange chicks, I know. The Polish is terrified of me so I have one that runs screaming in terror when she sees me and the other attacking me! I've had chicks before and they sure weren't like these two.

I got them because I plan to keep them with my RIR hen that broke her leg and can't be put back with the flock because they attacked her so bad and she can't defend herself or run away. I hope they don't bully her too! I didn't want to to be alone. She's a year old so I hope she's able to put them in their place. I'm waiting to put them together when the chicks are fully feathered.