tunnel from coop to run, girls won't use it!!!!

[buildingmyark]

It took mine forever to use our tunnel on their own too. Fortunately, we made our tunnel to have a hinged door on top that lifts and hooks to the fence. This allowed me to "scoot" them down the tunnel to the run. Even then, though, it took a while to click with them.

 

[jlasuzi]

I will try some corn and continue with the carrying back and forth for a few more days. Here is a pick from the run side.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Most chickens don't like change and are scared of anything new. But eventually one will get brave and try it, then they all will. You'll notice that a lot of times with new treats. They are afraid of trying it, but when one finally builds up the courage and tries it, they all suddenly want their own.

You can carry them back and forth if you wish. I like the idea of tempting them with food, but after putting some food in it, I'd kick back and give them a while to figure it out, probably several days. Patience solves a lot of problems with chickens. And I'm not sure what your problem is anyway. Why are you in such a hurry that they need to get out there right now?

 

[jlasuzi]

I am concerned about them staying in the coop because our heat index is 110. I have 2 fans on them in the coop with the door open and one window, but it is hot as satans arm pit in there!

 

[Ridgerunner]

I agree that is a concern. If it is that hot in there, I'd be looking at increasing ventilation, especially up high. I don't know where you are located, but heat is a real danger.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Take the wood off the sides and replace it with hardware cloth so they can see and they will use it

 

[jlasuzi]

Thanks bear foot. At this point I will try anything. Catch and carry, twice a day is getting old!!!

 

[cafarmgirl]

Quote:
Exactly. It goes against a chickens natural instincts to crawl into a dark tunnel. That is where predators hide! You have a much better chance of getting them used to using it if they can see. Then work with them with the scratch at the other end, probably won't take long for them to catch on.