Taming New Pullets?

[DotTheHen]

Hello everyone! I got two new EE pullets today, and I'd like some help with tips for taming them. They're pretty scared of me right now, understandably, but does anyone have any tips for getting them more comforable around me?

Currently, they are in their own small coop. I sat on a stool and fed my older hens some feed around me and them, to get them used to the older girls. I just kind of talked to them, and I also picked some grass for them to eat. When I opened the door to put the grass in, they bolted over to the corner and started pecking at the wire to get away. But once I sat back down on my stool which was a respectful 4-5 feet away, they walked back over to the grass and started eating, which was great! I didn't bother trying to touch them or hold them; just feeding the little ladies.

I get that they're young and new, but I'd just like any tips for their taming process. Also, they seem to be okay around the older girls, and one pullet walked right up to the wire near the girls. I expect this to take time, and I don't want to stress them out too much!


PS: Do you think that the pullets might trust me more if they see my older hens around me?

Thanks!

 

[igorsMistress]

Hi

I think you're starting off great! Food is a great way to earn their trust. Whatever they really like will help. My girls loved dehydrated crickets and mealworms, but live mealworms were even better. In their opinions anyway

Just take it slow and easy and they'll come around eventually. Just be sure to be around them regularly so they get used to you.

It's a good idea to have a meet between a fence situation with your older flock members for a while too. Don't let them comingle too soon and expect some pecking and hierarchy change as everyone adjusts.

 

[DotTheHen]

Thank you!

 

[igorsMistress]

Thank you!

Sure! Have you shared pics of your flock yet? We all love pics on this forum

 

[DotTheHen]

These are the new girls, but I have a thread with pictures of my flock here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/the-hen-hut-flock-2019.1308382/

 

[igorsMistress]

These are the new girls, but I have a thread with pictures of my flock here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/the-hen-hut-flock-2019.1308382/

View attachment 1771906

View attachment 1771907

They're beautiful I love the colors!

 

[DotTheHen]

Thank you! I do, too! They grey colored one is named dumpling, and the black and gold one is named Winnie. First time with EEs, so hopefully this goes well!