Three new pullets

[NeeCee51]

Well I took the next step and got three Light Sussex pullets from a farm that raises many different breeds. He told me they were born sometime in April. When I got the Orpingtons I was told they were born April 15. I think someone is wrong since the Orpingtons are twice as big as the Sussex. Anyway on to my question...The Sussex are very scared of me and I was wondering what I can do to get them to trust me. I talk to them but when they see me coming they get all upset. I give them treats and they like them but only after I am gone. Will they start to trust me as they get older? Thanks

 

[Mountain Peeps]

If you keep up with handling them, feeding them and talking to them, then yes, they'll probably warm up to you. Especially since they are sussex.

Good luck

 

[chicmom]

They probably didn't have alot of interaction from their breeder. Be sure and let them see you feeding and talking to the other pullets that you have. Offer treats and make sure you throw some their way so they can get some too....Just be persistent. Follow a routine each day and they will relax a bit.

Sometimes pullets remain shy. Often, when they get close to laying age, they do get more friendly. Raspberries are a great treat this time of year. (I pick them wild around the house, so they're free.) The chickens are crazy for them.

As a matter of fact, the raspberries are what helped make a few of my shy pullets much more friendly. They will now come close to me and take the berries from my hand. I think they're an irresistable treat.

The way to a chicken's heart is through it's stomach! haha Like men.

 

[NeeCee51]

That's what my husband said...The light Sussex I had to have put down loved to be held..of course she was a lot older. Thanks, I'll try and be persistent.

 

[NeeCee51]

They had no interaction with the breeder. He just handled them when people bought them. I just love Light Sussex. I had one last year that I had to have put down and she loved to be held and we talked all the time. Guess I will try and be patient and spoil them. I will try the raspberries. My Orpingtons love watermelon. Maybe I'll try that too...Thanks