Scared to Free Range

[KrysMT]

They are 5 months old, we do not have a rooster. We also have 60 acres that is mostly heavily wooded. Right now they are still timid. A couple of them are starting to eat out of our hand, but dont like being petted and run when we try to pick them up.

You may want to consider getting a rooster, if your going to free range. We’ve had two dog attacks and lost only one hen because of him. He has taken the brunt of the beatings.

 

[CoopintheWoods]

Also consider if you live in an area with an unusual amount of a certain predator. For example, unsupervised free-ranging is not an option for me, because I am right next to a lake where lots of hawks and eagles nest, and they are quick to grab chickens.
Good luck!

 

[Ribh]

2nd on teaching them to come to a call expecting treats. Food is a great motivator.

 

[Mrs. K]

I agree with the food calling. Just call out every time you feed them, they will come running.

Even if you plan to free range them every day, I recommend a coop/run set up, with the run part large enough that your birds can stay in 24/7. It is so handy to be able to lock them up if you are going to be gone for a few days, or if you get hit by a predator. Predators will be back for another easy meal. Having a way to protect them, is nice.

Mrs K

 

[flyin-lowe]

The first couple times I let mine out they had been in the coup for a couple weeks. Then I would let them out about 20 minutes before it got dark so they didn't have time to wander too far. After a couple days of them returning to the coup as they should I let them out all day.