Skittish Hen

[Sweetpea325]

I am new to owning chickens, my hen lets me come near her and runs close to me when I come bring her treats, food and clean the water but she will not let me touch her at all. She keeps a distance of about 3 feet from me at all times, she lets my dogs come and sniff her and she doesn't mind being close to the horses. I've had her for about 2 years now, she has become more comfortable around me but still doesn't let me touch her. I talk to her all the time and she stays close to me when I clean her coop.

How can I make her more comfortable around me to let me touch her?

 

[Wishing4Wings]

Hi Sweetpea,

!!!

I think your hen sounds perfectly normal. My chickens were hand raised from chicks and have always been treated well, but most of them would rather not be handled or touched. There are only 2 of the 10 that will allow a bit of petting or jump in my lap if I sit down. Several others will eat treats from my hand. They all follow me around and keep me company when I'm gardening. I really think it is the personality of the individual chicken that determines how friendly they will be, and I am content with limited interaction.

The only thing I can think of that might tame your "wild beast"

is to sit down and be still, and let her approach you. Of course holding a tempting treat in your hand will encourage her to come closer. Standing up and approaching her is probably scary. I don't think anyone enjoys a looming person! Reward her with some treat any time she comes closer than 3 feet, but don't try to touch her. Eventually she may feel comfortable enough to eat from your hand, and then you can decide about going further with touching.

Good luck!