Need "Free Ranging" advice

[chickiedoodle]

Because we have goats and ducks as well as chickens, I was trying to decide how to have a distinctive "call" for each so that the goats didn't come running when I want the chickens etc. Someone suggested having a different bell for each and training them with that. It works beautifully. Each group knows it's particular bell and the others ignore it completely. I also don't have to worry about going hoarse calling "here chick, chick, chick" all evening and my hubby, sister, kids, whoever can get the animals to come to them as well.

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
Great idea!
I just yell c'mon girls! I get everybody, including my Charlie dog when she was alive. Also, my rooster. Apparently he doesn't know he's not a "girl".

 

[Preservation Acres]

My hens have trained themselves. When they hear cicadas in the trees, they start pecking and scratching in the direction of the coop. I never have to guide them back.

I've even trained my kids...when the chickens go in to roost, it's time to come inside for the evening.