Run Behavior Seem Scared

[Ambersquared]

Hi folks!
I have 4 week old chicks that I’m introducing to the run full day now that they are more feathered and the days are in the 70-80s weather wise.

Before I’d take them out every day for an hour or two to let them roam around.

It’s been 2-3 days that I’ve been putting them out and they seem to love it and enjoy the run, but only when I’m around. I notice when I leave they’ll all huddle together in a corner and appear to be scared. As soon as I come out and they see me they start roaming the run again and having fun.

I know it’s new for them to be out without me next to them, but was wondering what the best approach is here. I’ve started hanging out outside while I work for this reason but wondering if I should just let them get used to it so they don’t rely on me in the long term and do more damage than good?

 

[WIchickMama]

They will get used to it, right now it is something different and chickens hate change. They know you and see you as a flock leader probably and that is why they are up and about when you are out there.

I think you can just check on them throughout the day, make sure they are eating and enjoying chicken life, but they will be a.o.k

 

[azygous]

They are looking to you for guidance, having imprinted on you as their mother hen. You are correct that they will work it out if you aren't near. One bold chick will eventually take the lead and the rest will follow.

They do need cover. Chicks are very aware of their vulnerability. They need a place to duck under so they aren't exposed in order to feel safe. Do you have photos of the run and their space? Are there older chickens in the picture?

 

[Ambersquared]

They will get used to it, right now it is something different and chickens hate change. They know you and see you as a flock leader probably and that is why they are up and about when you are out there.

I think you can just check on them throughout the day, make sure they are eating and enjoying chicken life, but they will be a.o.k

Thank you so much! I’m a first time momma so I’m overly concerned about everything haha.
It’s hard when I look out the window and see them all huddled in the corner looking around but I’ll refrain and empower them so they can be happy with and without me being there!

 

[WIchickMama]

In a couple weeks you will look out there and they will be happily running around and doing chickens things

 

[Ambersquared]

They are looking to you for guidance, having imprinted on you as their mother hen. You are correct that they will work it out if you aren't near. One bold chick will eventually take the lead and the rest will follow.

They do need cover. Chicks are very aware of their vulnerability. They need a place to duck under so they aren't exposed in order to feel safe. Do you have photos of the run and their space? Are there older chickens in the picture?

This makes so much sense. They do have a place under the coop which is exactly where they’re hiding when I’m not around! The run is also roofed but they definitely feel safer under the coop itself it seems
No other chickens just my little chicketies

 

[azygous]

They would probably appreciate a little lean-to so as to have a little more seclusion from exposure. Your run is pretty open. If something frightens them, they need an enclosure to hide under.

 

[azygous]

Another thing. Don't expect them to figure out how to get up into the coop at night without being taught to do it.

 

[Ambersquared]

Another thing. Don't expect them to figure out how to get up into the coop at night without being taught to do it.

Okay I love the idea of a lean-to! I’m on it!
Will keep the coop at night situation in mind when they start sleeping in there at night! For now I’m still bringing them inside since the night temps are now getting in the 50s. High 50s but nonetheless I was going to wait till their little noggins feather in to put them out at night!