Scaredy cats.....or chicks

[dansanddogs]

Hi. I brought home my now 4 week old chicks (buff orpingtons) just a few days ago. They are in a coral in my garage until my coop & run are complete. We visit, talk, and try to pet them several times each day. These girls seem like they are scared and they run in the opposite direction. (To get away from me). Why? I was hoping to tame them and they would be very friendly, but it's not looking so good. Is there anything I can do to make them not so scared?

 

[BlackBriars]

Pull up a chair and sit so you aren't towering over them. Maybe ignore them and read a book or something. Soon they will get used to you and their natural curiosity should take over.

 

[dansanddogs]

Thank you! I have been getting inside the corral with them ans kneeling down to pick them up. Some of them don't mind but there's a few that "scream" the whole time I'm holding them. I sure hope they calm down soon. I'll take your advice and sit & read outside their corral. Thanks again!

 

[Violetsrblu]

A treat like mealworms might help. Most, but not all of my chicks would start jumping or flying up to my arm or hand once they associated me with occasional mealworm offerings. Beware, though, some of my girls (now 3 years old) still want to fly up on my head, shoulders, or back in hope of getting treats.

 

[dansanddogs]

Thanks! I'm gonna go buy some mill worms today

how often can they have treats?