Should you not pet them when they squat??

[4mountainchicks]

Thanks for asking the question. I was wondering the same thing. My most shy is now my best buddy.

Now I know.

 

[Canardman]

So does petting your chickens that squat stimulate egg laying?

 

[Chickassan]

Nope but it does indicate they are seriously thinking about laying. They don't squat for fun, just buisness. So petting probably isn't stimulating, probably tons more enjoyable than actual rooster mounting but you won't get more eggs or faster eggs.

So does petting your chickens that squat stimulate egg laying?

 

[jeria]

Since before my girls started laying (1st one Christmas Eve) if I pet them they squat and have been doing that since. My attention hog will peck at me a little if she wants attention and I'm petting or holding another, have been doing a little swat on her beak and she will back away and wait her turn.

 

[Frazzemrat1]

Honestly, if you get pecked, you should peck back (so to speak). Poke back. The rooster would.

 

[jeria]

Honestly, if you get pecked, you should peck back (so to speak). Poke back. The rooster would.

Thanks, I sure don't know much about disciplining chickens, never thought about it.

 

[CCUK]

I have some that do that. I just give the tail a ruffle and they stand up looking flustered have a shake and wander off!! Don't do it to a Brahma, don't even look at her if she squats because if any are like mine she immediately becomes broody then you have the job of unbroodying her!!

 

[rosemarythyme]

I like encouraging squatters since it makes them much easier to catch if needed. The only downside is if your hens get in the habit of squatting for you, you have to tread carefully, or else you end up punting feathered "footballs" everywhere in the run.

 

[chickengeorgeto]

So, what am I to do? Not pet them?? This is a serious question.

I think that you got an honest answer.

 

[Chickassan]

Oh i hated that part! I accidentally booted so many hens before my rooster boy become a rooster man. I did do the ruffle and tail tug to get some peace while i waited, but boy did i feel used.

I like encouraging squatters since it makes them much easier to catch if needed. The only downside is if your hens get in the habit of squatting for you, you have to tread carefully, or else you end up punting feathered "footballs" everywhere in the run.