New to this chicken keeping lark

[Brahma Bantam Boy]

Hi everyone.

I just got a pair of Brahma bantam (like the name says) hens (at least we think they are hens) as my first chickens. I've kept, and worked with, loads of animals but not chickens, so I'm looking forward to learning all about them.

What are this breed like to keep? Are there any specific things I need to look out for?

Also, I do a lot of animal training. How trainable are chickens? I've been using the clicker techniques a fair bit recently, has anyone had any success with this with chickens? I'd like to train them to come when called, go into their house etc. is this feasible?

Like I said, complete chicken newby so be gentle with me!

Cheers

Matt

 

[teach1rusl]

from Indiana Matt. I'm not sure how trainable chickens are. I know mine will come running when I call "Chick-Chick-Chick!", mine recognize and come running when I shake the treat cannister, and mine know their names (I only have a few hens). Give training them a try....maybe instead of shaking a treat cannister, do the clicker and then give them a little scratch. Maybe they will learn to associate the clicker with "SRATCH!!!!" and come running for it????

 

[annie3001]

from ct.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Gallo del Cielo]

Hi Matt,

from Tucson, AZ. Chickens are very trainable. All six of mine know their names, "off the porch", "inside", "outside" and, of course, "treats!!!". Use mealworms for reinforcers (see my BYC page for how to grow them). You certainly came to the right place to learn about poultry, and don't worry about being a newbie, we're mostly all friendly here