what does it mean when a chicken does this

[sydney13]

when you try to pick up a nervous chicken and they squat down and tuck their wings up?

 

[paddock36]

Means they think your the roo.

 

[gryeyes]

You're the boss. ;-)

 

[Gypsy07]

It's a sign of submission. Mine only do it when they're startled, so I think it's also a sign they're scared...

 

[chickensducks&agoose]

My appenzeller spitzhauben does it every time I come within 10 feet of her. It's very odd, and slightly off putting. But I like her, so I just pat her, or, if I'm not really near her, I just reassure her that I'm not trying to catch her, but thanks for making it easy.

 

[Keg]

they're assuming the "mating" position

i thought it was cute that they squatted down for a pat at first, then i found out what it was.. I still give them a little back scratch though, they seem to enjoy it

 

[newlyweds]

I am LOLing. Mine do that to me everyday, I had no clue they were assuming the mating position. Ha Ha Ha. I am the Roo!!!

No wonder they look at me crazy as I pet them and fluff their feathers.

 

[Keg]

try scratching them on their sides under their wings, a little towards their rear - pretty much where a rooster would "hold on" - their tails curl up in the air as they, uh... "present" themselves

they sure know who's boss though

by the way, after giving them a scratch, mine ALWAYS fluff their feathers up - is this the same for anyone else?

 

[Chickn chick 46]

Mine do this to me often, sometimes when I give them a pat I give a gentle pull on their tails too, they seem to like it

 

[Sequin]

ROFLOL ... but yes, my girls do this to me too, and so they get a little back scratch and then they fluff their feathers. However, one of my roos Hates that they like me and submit to me and so he will challenge me. I always have to win in a calm and confident manner, but I hate having to go through it. He is a good roo to the girls though, and is very good at watching out for them.