So strange...

[JDChickChat]

I feel like my chickens hate me, lol. During the day, they flee from me. The two that used to run to me when I opened the brooder as baby chicks no longer really want to be on me, but tonight when I went to close their coop, 6 out of 7 tried to roost on my arms and head.

I just don't get it!!

I want them to be social and friendly, I got the breeds I did for that reason... 3 dominiques, 1 wellsummer, 2 buff orpingtons (and 1 easter egger for her eggs even though I heard they weren't that friendly.) I've handled them a lot from day 1 to get them used to it but it doesnt seem to be working unless its bed time!! Lol

Any advice?

 

[Homesteadermomma6382]

First-My easter eggers are the friendliest girls ive ever had. And ive had a lot of babies that liked being held but as soon as they go outside they are like "mom!! We are to old for that!!!" Teenagers lol. Ive also had a few that didnt like being held until they were a little older. Like people they all have different personalities. And they change moods. Gotta just let em themselves

 

[April0617]

Mine decided they were too cool for me when they moved out, too. A little over a week later they come running to say hello when they see me again

 

[rosemarythyme]

How old are they? If they're in their "teens" it's normal for them to get a little more skittish and unfriendly. Once they reach point of lay they'll calm back down and be a little more friendly.

 

[JDChickChat]

How old are they? If they're in their "teens" it's normal for them to get a little more skittish and unfriendly. Once they reach point of lay they'll calm back down and be a little more friendly.

They are 5 1/2 weeks old, so moody teenagers they are!!! They want nothing to do with me until they want me to 'tuck them into bed' lol.

 

[rosemarythyme]

They are 5 1/2 weeks old, so moody teenagers they are!!! They want nothing to do with me until they want me to 'tuck them into bed' lol.

At 5 1/2 weeks they should still be friendly-ish. Maybe run away and return, that sort of thing. With little chicks I find it easiest to handle them if you can get them get "up high" - whether on roosts or on taller items they can climb up on. If they can see you from higher up, they're less scared than if you're just a giant pair of boots and grabbing hands.

5 week old chicks on a roost in the run, about 3' up. Perfectly chill with me getting right in there with a camera and flash, or touching them on their chests and backs. If they were on the ground there'd be a lot more protesting and some wouldn't want to stick around very long.