What does it mean when a hen squats?

[CAWvid]

I know hens squat to let a rooster mate with them. What does it mean when they sqaut when I aproch. Do they think I'm a rooster. Normally it's just the tamer hens but I also have a few that run away from me but will sqaut if I chase them, or they didn't realize I was there.
Does this mean they're afraid of me? Is it okay to pick them up when they are squating?
I don't have a rooster.

 

[aart]

They squat to be mated...but also will squat to show submission.
It's OK to pick them up when they are squatting.

 

[Chickassan]

She is either randy or letting you know you're in charge.
Either way, you're a rooster.

 

[cmom]

I agree with the others. They realize you're in charge.

 

[CAWvid]

Cool, thank you.

 

[Chickassan]

I think you mean cock a doodle do.

Cool, thank you.

 

[Newblet]

Mine started doing this to, I find it funny. I never thought much of it. But makes sense, thanks for posting this.

 

[Thaney Design]

I've always heard that it's also an indicator that eggs will be close behind... and I got my first squat from my oldest hen yesterday!

 

[aart]

I've always heard that it's also an indicator that eggs will be close behind... and I got my first squat from my oldest hen yesterday!

Do you mean pullet?

Sorry, sometimes I can't help myself.
FYI.....semantics, maybe, but can be important communication terms when discussing chicken behavior.
Female chickens are called pullets until one year of age, then they are called hens.
Male chickens are called cockerels until one year of age, then they are called cocks(or cockbirds or roosters).
Age in weeks or months is always a good thing to note.


Here's that first egg will appear soon!!

Oh, and....here's some tips about how to tell....
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/who-is-laying-and-who-is-not-butt-check.73309/

 

[Thaney Design]

Do you mean pullet?

Yes, I mean pullet, sorry!