They hate me...

[LindseyC]

I've read all the advice about talking to them to help them get used to your voice and trying to approach them from the side because of natural predator instinct, etc. The approaching them from the side is kind of difficult since they are in the brooder, but I do still try the "scoop from the side" vs directly on top. They still run like it's a Godzilla movie. I feel horrible that they seem terrified. I've been making them yummy mushy chick starter and warm water which they love.. and they will come eat out of the lid when I'm holding it.. so I that's probably a good sign.. maybe?

I guess my question is, will they always be like this since they aren't getting used to me at an early age, or is it possible that they will chill out when they move to the coop? We don't have it completed yet, so taking them out there for some bonding time isn't an option at this point. They range in ages from around 2 weeks to 3 weeks old. I picked up one of my bigger EEs and I swear she hissed at me. I didn't know chickens would hiss! They hate me. I have only ever had dogs, and I realize they are chickens are not dogs, but.... I WANT THEM TO LOVE ME!

 

[AlleysChicks]

Just spend time with them. Start talking the moment you enter the room the brooder is in. They will get used to you. Mine became the friendliest once they started laying.

 

[azygous]

How is your weather there? Are you getting any mild days yet? If you find a day 65F or better with no chill wind, you can start to take them outdoors for short periods.

Rigging up a temporary play pen and climbing inside with them, sitting down on the ground and letting the chicks climb on you and explore your legs and lap and even crawl up your arms will allow them to see all of you and realize you are a "friendly". Just watch for signs of them beginning to chill and take them back indoors.

Once chicks can start going outside and you no longer need to relate to them in the confines of the brooder, almost all chicks become friendlier.

These day trips will also begin to acclimatize your chicks to cooler temps and help wean them off heat, allowing them to feather out more efficiently. You'll be able to move them into their coop around age six weeks, that is, if you get it finished by the time they are ready for the move.

 

[LindseyC]

Thank you so much for the suggestions. I do talk to them a lot, but not always as soon as I enter. I will be more conscious of that. I think I'll try the taking them in the yard idea. We are expected to have 70's and a couple of close to 80 degree days this week. I'm going to order an outdoor dog playpen. Hopefully, that will help. Thanks again!

 

[getaclue]

Get some grit into them, then get them some mealworms as treats. On day 1, put a few mealworms in your hand, and show it to them. Don't get too close. They'll run to the farthest corner. In a little bit, pour the mealworms into the feeder. Do this several days in a row, and it won't be long before they're cautiously approaching to grab a treat. It takes time, and they go through stages, but they do eventually get less skittery.

 

[LittleMissCountry]

Mine got friendlier as they got older. Once I was able to take them outside, that helped a lot! They would follow me around the yard and sit on my legs when I sat down. Mine are 7 weeks now. That said, I have one that is still not friendly, out of the four. She flaps her wings wildly when I try to pick her up, and screeches at me. The others perk up when they hear my voice.

 

[hoopsie13]

I've read all the advice about talking to them to help them get used to your voice and trying to approach them from the side because of natural predator instinct, etc. The approaching them from the side is kind of difficult since they are in the brooder, but I do still try the "scoop from the side" vs directly on top. They still run like it's a Godzilla movie. I feel horrible that they seem terrified. I've been making them yummy mushy chick starter and warm water which they love.. and they will come eat out of the lid when I'm holding it.. so I that's probably a good sign.. maybe?

I guess my question is, will they always be like this since they aren't getting used to me at an early age, or is it possible that they will chill out when they move to the coop? We don't have it completed yet, so taking them out there for some bonding time isn't an option at this point. They range in ages from around 2 weeks to 3 weeks old. I picked up one of my bigger EEs and I swear she hissed at me. I didn't know chickens would hiss! They hate me. I have only ever had dogs, and I realize they are chickens are not dogs, but.... I WANT THEM TO LOVE ME!

 

[hoopsie13]

with them being so young they are naturally going to be a bit afraid. its great u are incorperating a snack differant than the starter . when they grow a bit older and you havw the chance to throw out other snacks such as bird feed or shell scratch they will come running. we are actually able to stand on the back porch and yell HERE CHICK CHICK CHICK... and they run up to us. but yes u are doing a good job spending time and talking to them. i personally (and u dont have to do this) change the bedding and water daily. that way they see me working around them and they get used to me being there but not to bother them as well. dont worry they will come adound eventually. takes time and treats and patience...lol. ur doing great tho!

 

[hoopsie13]

Get some grit into them, then get them some mealworms as treats. On day 1, put a few mealworms in your hand, and show it to them. Don't get too close. They'll run to the farthest corner. In a little bit, pour the mealworms into the feeder. Do this several days in a row, and it won't be long before they're cautiously approaching to grab a treat. It takes time, and they go through stages, but they do eventually get less skittery.

 

[hoopsie13]

how old are your chicks when u start to give mealworm treats?