pecking me!

[flying_babyb]

Im having a issue with my 4 week old chicks. Im getting pecked everytime I put my hand near the brooder. I know part of the problem is they think I have food but even when I dont there pecking me. I can just be opeing the door and they nail me. How can I get this to stop, without having to stop hand feeding them (treats)?

 

[saladin]

Pecking is normal, but on top of that YOU are the one that taught them to do this. They don't know when you have a 'treat' and when you don't. This one is your fault compeletly.

 

[annep]

My chickens are older, but I have had to train them to come when called..and the only way to do that is with food..I went out yesterday for a walk around my yard, and they all followed me just waiting! So, I gave in and threw them some scratch...Silly chickies!

 

[flying_babyb]

what can I do to correct this with this batch and prevent this with the new batch? I only feeed them treats in the center of the brooder.

 

[saladin]

Don't feed treats! At this age they need a good solid ration: Medicated Chick Starter or Medicated Gamebird Starter.