I ordered quite a mix from Ideal hatchery (see below) & have been pleased w/all of my chickies. They turned 3wks today But, my black Australorps are crazy! They were the loudest when I brought them home and now when I try to hold them. They squak, kick & even try to peck at me. Turning their heads in all these weird directions, just to get a good jab at my hand. Even the extra 7 RIR roos I received, aren't as skittish I thought they were supposed to be sweet hens? Do they have some major personality change as they get older? My SLWs & BRs are by far the sweetest. They don't mind being held and will hang-out next to you. All the while the BAs are running around like chickens w/their heads cut off What about your BAs? Did I just get a crazy duo?
Interesting. I have about 10 BA's that came from McMurray; 5 weeks. They are the only ones I can pick up readily, and several will jump on my knee and settle down to rest. I also have BO, NHR, RIR, SS, EE, BR in the group. Sounds like it is the difference in the hatchery line, maybe?
I've got a BA chick who is so sweet. This morning she ran over to me & jumped up into my lap. The little BO, though, screams bloody murder when you pick her up. DBF has started joining her when she does it. Imagine a peeping chick and a grown man who is yelling "BLOODY MURDER" while making his voice crack. I that silly guy.
That is odd for BA. They've still got a lot of maturing to do, so I wouldn't worry too much about it. Just keep handling them and hopefully they'll decide to behave soon.
I have four BA pullets from Ideal as well, now about 9 months old. They have always been the most skiddish of my flock. But, they are great layers
Sounds like you got the Black sheep of the BA breed hehehee mine were exact opposite's as chicks. Good luck with them... maybe treats will work? nancy
