i somehow acquired 2 runaways and i have questions. please help

[RoyalChick]

too funny
that's a dirty trick, tassels!

thelma is a piglet too! omg. she would do anything for food (normally!)
she did bokbok today but not when she was in the coop. that was new!
also, will she actually let me touch her if she gets in the trance?
neither ever never ever let me touch them never mind pick them up!

The only time I can handle mine is when they are broody. You might get pecked but probably not.
Put a hand in each side to pin her wings to her side and lift. Then you can tuck her under your arm like a football.
Your heart will melt because she will be amazingly soft and warm. The best thing about Tassels being broody is I get to steal a snuggle when I carry her outside.

 

[redinator]

A couple of other 'out of the box' suggestions . . .

Bring them both inside in a dog crate, or a separate room from your living space (laundry room, guest bath) maybe the sudden change of scenery will change her mood.

If that's not an option remove some of decorative vines so she feels more exposed. . . . just spit balling here.

 

[RoyalChick]

yeah i don't know what to do most times. what would i do with a bunch of roosters?

Well.
If you are allowed roosters you might want to keep a couple for your flock.
Otherwise you can try to give them away (some people have luck with Craig’s list or FB Marketplace) or you can process them for the freezer (or find someone who will do it for you).

 

[pollipazzi]

I have 4 nearly 8 week old chicks that I planned on having. I can't imagine what it's like to be adopted by a pair of hens you didn't plan for.

Breathe, as I read someone else say . . .chickens have managed to survive long before we came along and inspite of our well intentioned but sometimes detrimental interference.

that will be my mantra. thank you

 

[pollipazzi]

Well.
If you are allowed roosters you might want to keep a couple for your flock.
Otherwise you can try to give them away (some people have luck with Craig’s list or FB Marketplace) or you can process them for the freezer (or find someone who will do it for you).

i wouldn't think i was allowed as i'm "in" the village. and i also think i would be afraid of them. not on purpose. i think because these guys are so little they aren't as intimidating but i'd still be a little afraid of trying to pick them up. just a little.

 

[AntiqueB]

I'm always a little afraid, even of the hens. Their wings can pack a punch.

 

[pollipazzi]

I'm always a little afraid, even of the hens. Their wings can pack a punch.

and their beaks!

 

[pollipazzi]

you guys, i just wanted to say thank you all so much for all the help and reassurance. you're stars. i would have felt pretty lost without all of your support.

 

[RoyalChick]

I'm always a little afraid, even of the hens. Their wings can pack a punch.

I was terrified the first time I realized I had to pick up a chicken. Now I just wish they would give me a chance!

 

[redinator]

and their beaks!

I try to shoot video to grab stills from for gender identification. If I don't come bearing treats they get feisty and I hatched and handled mine from day 1. They're greedy little tyrants. When I rewatch the video all you hear me say is "Stop trying to eat me you little turd" over and over, lol.