My chickens don't like the outside

[sherylwelch]

Hello, I'm new to BYC and to chicken raising and I need some help. I have two pet chickens, an Araucana (Buttercream) and a Barred Rock (Shortcake). They just turned 4 months old. They've been living in their outside coop for about 2 months or so. My husband and I let them out in the morning when we go to work and put them back in at night. The problem is that they usually run under the porch right after we let them out and only come back out to eat or drink. I'm wondering if this is normal or how can I get them to roam around the yard? I'm sorry if this has been talked about before but I would really love some advice.
Thank you guys
Sheryl

 

[cavemanrich]

Nothing is wrong, The chickens are young and natural instinct means they like to take cover for safety. In time they will roam more freely when they feel safe. Cant blame them for being afraid. Be with them and handle them and let them run freely when you are there. Your interaction will make them less afraid. JMO.

And

 

[sherylwelch]

Awesome! That's good to know. Makes me feel way better. Thanks a lot for the advice and the welcome!

 

[shell shocked]

hi yer
they are young so they will be a bit timid when i got my girls they where very shy but
i sat with them with a few treats earth worms corn small seeds with in a few days 4 out of
7 where eating out of my hand now they all do in fact as soon as i go any where near
them all hell breaks loose my silver sussex has started sitting on my shoulder she never
gives me a minute so what i am trying to say is spend as much time as you can with them
move slow and it wont be long until their running up demanding treats
good luck