Training them to not run away from you?

[rosemarythyme]

When they were younger did you (or a family member) handle them regularly? How do you approach them when you need to catch them? I find that if I crouch down and approach slowly, they're less likely to move away, and once I'm close enough I can reach out an arm and snag them.

Are they trained to look to you for treats or approach for treats? If so, you could use treats to lure them in, and then grab them once they've gotten their snack

This is also a great idea for harder-to-catch/handle birds though personally I opt to do everything during the day:

Wear a headlamp and do the wellness checks at night when they’re on the roost and confined to one place.

 

[Mrs. K]

A chicken hook, works absolutely the best. The first time I snagged one, I had it up in my arms before I knew it. I have used a fishnet - it will catch them, but upsets EVERYBODY, the chicken hook, no one else even notices.

But I did read on here, where a woman took a piece of chicken wire about 3 feet high, and made it into a tube about 24 inches diameter, and she would just drop that over the top of them. Said it totally confused them, but they were calm, and then she could easily reach in and gather them up.

Mrs K

 

[KarynVA]

This "chicken hook" you speak of could be a life changer for me! I'd be curious how common it is to use these and any tips and tricks.

 

[Mrs. K]

https://www.premier1supplies.com/p/...5023546381&utm_content=Poultry & Poultry Prep