Wanted: Tips for Handling Chicks

[GKestrel]

New to chickens. I have 4 6-day-old chicks: 1each Golden Lace Wyandotte, Production Red Black Sex Links, Black Australorp. I know handling them is good. I pick them up several times a day. They're not used to me yet, but we'll get there.

My question: Do chickens have favorite ways to be pet? (Like cats usually like ear or chin scratches.) Does it vary by breed?

 

[CourtsCacklers]

I am not 100 percent on this either as I am a newbie too but if you approach chicks from the top they are usually more timid and scared because that is how predator approach them. If you can approach them from the side-- that is best but if not-- speak to them first so they know you are there and approach them slowly. I am not real sure about what is the best way to hold them but I choose to hold mine by sliding my hand under them and letting their legs hang on each side of my right ring finger with their breast laying in my palm. I then gently pet them on the back of their head and their back and they usually go to sleep for me after a little bit. It appears like they like it! I have 3 Rhode Island Reds and 3 Silver Laced Wyandottes and the Rhode Island Reds have really really really come around. They are only a day and a half old and they jump in my hand now!!!!

 

[Jakoda]

having feed in your hand helps as well, they will see you as a food source and come running