Young chickens staying on roost

[Mhrcr1]

I have 4 pullets 8-12 weeks old they have been out in the coup/run for a week now. They seem to spend most of the day perched up 2 feet off the ground on the support braces for the raised coup. They have a swing and 2 perches on the ground When they Come down the seem to get a quick bite to eat some water and jump right back up. Is this normal? Do they just need time to get comfortable?

 

[farmgirllvo]

I think it is totally normal, they just need time to get used to their soroundings.
Try putting treats on the ground for to encourage them to come down.

 

[CluckerCottage]

Welcome to BYC, glad you've joined us!
What is on the ground in your run?
Sand, shavings, wire?

 

[Mhrcr1]

Thank you! I will try the treat thing. It's all bare dirt I was going to do sand but I wasn't sure if it was a good idea. I have a box for dust baths I don't think they have figured out either. I was going to close them out of that arre but wasn't sure if that was necessary.

 

[Mhrcr1]

Welcome to BYC, glad you've joined us!
What is on the ground in your run?
Sand, shavings, wire?

Would it be a good idea to shut them out of that area during the day?

 

[centrarchid]

Look into providing a large shallow box with some hay in it. Then throw in a handful of grain like BOSS or shell-corn.

 

[Mhrcr1]

Look into providing a large shallow box with some hay in it. Then throw in a handful of grain like BOSS or shell-corn.

Is this to keep them busy?

 

[centrarchid]

In part, yes. It may also provide a refuge from the bare ground. When chickens not actively foraging, they are even more inclined to avoid bare / exposed areas. Loafing is what they do when not foraging. The setup I recommend will provide two benefits.