new Chickens

[Myriam]

So, I got four chicken four days ago and we live in southern California where it's still pleasantly sunny. The chickens spend all day in the coop other than coming out maybe once for food and maybe, maybe another time for a treat if I hold it under their beaks long enough?! They're about 7-8 months and not broody. No clue why they're not roaming around!

 

[BorneHomestead]

The stress of the move may be why they are acting like they are. Are you keeping them separate from the rest of your flock?

 

[Myriam]

I only have the four chickens.

 

[BorneHomestead]

sorry thought you were adding more chickens, no worries. it is most likely just due to the stress of moving them from where they were to your place. give them a bit to get used to your place and they should start free ranging in no time.

 

[Myriam]

ok, will do, thanks for the imput

 

[shmeggs]

my first hens I got were already laying. when I brought them home because of the stress of moving it took about week and a half to start laying again. when they starting laying it was just one or two a day for about a week then I was getting 6 eggs a day, I had 6 hens to start. good luck.

 

[donrae]

They are in new surroundings and are just figuring out what is safe, is all. Most chickens are very aware they're not the top of the food chain and like sheltered environments until they have a good handle on their new homes. Just give them time, is all. Scattering scratch or something like that outside to entice them doesn't hurt, either.