New pullets won't go down ladder

[meags163]

I added 4 10 week old RIRs to my flock (of 1 leghorn) and they will go up the ladder to the coop but not down. There is a hole in the floor of the coop and they seem to be having trouble figuring it out after 2 days. The leghorn is much bigger so I don't think size is the problem...she goes up and down all day. Today they went without food and water until I let them out the window. I got them from a farm where they in a run with just a tarp cover and it didnt seem like they had roosts and definitely no ladder. Will they figure it out eventually? I am keeping food and water in the coop but pulled it out today to see if they would come down but no luck.

 

[valentinebaby]

I threw some cracked corn on the ramp and it helped to get them start using it.

 

[Judy]

Yes, bribery will get you everywhere.

I wouldn't use the window if you have to put them in by hand, I'd walk them up the ladder.

They'll figure it out.

 

[meags163]

They walk up fine...its the getting down that's the problem.