Personality changes?

[mopalia]

My 18 week old Wyandottes have undergone a personality change. They've never been the friendliest birds, but a week or so ago they decided that they are terrified of me and everything else. They stay behind their small coop or in it and won't venture out much - they used to greet me if I came into the pen but now they come close reluctantly and don't trust any treats I bring. They don't even seem to like each other much. No eggs yet; only one has a comb that's turning red. What's up with these girls? The coop is a small pre-fab but they have a nice 18'x30' fenced pen (that is not covered). No sign of hawks, crows, etc. Any explanations for a 16-17 week personality change?

 

[PirateGirl]

They are at the age that hormones are changing as they get ready to crow or lay. Things may be a bit hectic for a month or so, but once they ALL hit sexual maturity and are all laying they will re-establish a pecking order and routine and things will simmer down.

 

[sawilliams]

It's possible the was a predator near by that has disturbed them. But my guess is most likely is a very normal indication of maturing. It is not necessary a good or bad thing and does not happen to every chicken. I had one of my first chickens do just to opposite of yours. She was always very shy, back of the group and kept to herself. One day I went to let the hens out and and she was the first to the gate. Gave me a warm cooing greating and was first out into the yard. She finally began laying shortly after that.

I have noticed when the friendliest chicks become the most nervous at this time. They will never be quite as loving again but they will become more social and accepting of you again.

 

[sourland]

I agree that it is very likely the teen aged blues or that there may be a predator in the area that has them spooked.

 

[alexa009]

Chickens always hit this stage during the growing period no matter what age. My Red Sex Link and Delaware were wild and didn't want to be touched. Now that they have both hit maturity, they are the docile, friendly and won't let you sit down without trying to snuggle with you.

 

[mopalia]

Thanks all for the reassurance. I thought it might be something like that - Sort of like how your children become alien life-forms at puberty.