Why are my blue orpingtons not friendly?

[HolyHenHouse]

Chickens are individuals, personalities vary from bird to bird.

I realize that, but am just wondering why it is these two... is it a breed thing???

 

[nuthatched]

I realize that, but am just wondering why it is these two... is it a breed thing???

No.
Breed is orpington, color is blue. Could be that one decided she didn't like you and the rest followed.

 

[HolyHenHouse]

No.
Breed is orpington, color is blue. Could be that one decided she didn't like you and the rest followed.

makes sense

 

[thecatumbrella]

I realize that, but am just wondering why it is these two... is it a breed thing???

In my limited experience, chickens tend to form cliches with the ones that look like them and act as sort of a "hive mind". So if 2 out of 3 decide you're a threat, the last will likely follow suit.

Don't encourage your birds to perch on you, it's not a habit you want them to have.

Curious why you think so?

I can see familiarity breeding bad habits. It's also somewhat of a liability. I've had a small bird fly at me while I was holding something dangerous, and a 7 pounder launch at my head for "cuddle time". Still not enough to quite deter me, so I'm open to hearing other reasons!

 

[nuthatched]

makes sense

I had a hen hate grapes and until she died, nobody else would touch grapes

 

[mopalia]

I had silver laced Wyandottes from their third day, and they always hated being picked up. I gave up and they remained aloof and not friendly until they died. I finally realized that they were just snobs!

 

[WldPoppy]

Hi, first time posting. I have five hens, 5 different breeds. I notice the one that is the most skittish and hangs back (even if I have mealworms) is my Barred Rock - a breed that I keep reading is supposed to be VERY friendly. So far, no amount of encouragement, treats, sitting on the ground, etc. will coax her to come close to me. She prefers to grab mealworms that fly her way when others peck rather than get close. I've not had any of them long, so maybe she'll warm up at some point.

 

[GApeachmama]

When you say they are pecking you do you mean your hand or your leg or what?

How does the peck location matter? My ladies go for my feet and shins. Heifers.