Tame Your Flock: How to Handle Chickens at Home

Handling a chicken is an important skill for any chicken owner to have, as it allows you to inspect your birds for health issues, give them treats, and even move them from one place to another.

When it comes to handling chickens, the most important thing to remember is to be gentle and patient. Chickens can be easily startled and may not like being handled at first, so it’s important to take your time and let them get used to you. Start by slowly reaching out your hand and letting the chicken come to you. If the chicken doesn’t seem interested, try offering a treat or some food. Once the chicken is comfortable with you, you can start to pick them up.

When picking up a chicken, it’s important to be careful and supportive. Place one hand under the breast and the other under the wings, then lift the chicken up. Make sure you support the bird’s body weight and keep their feet off the ground. This will help keep them calm and prevent them from struggling or flapping their wings.

Once you have the chicken in your hands, you can inspect them for any health issues or injuries. Look for signs of parasites, mites, lice, or other illnesses. You can also check their feathers for any signs of damage or missing feathers. If you find any issues, make sure to contact your vet right away.

Finally, when you’re done handling the chicken, make sure to put them down gently and in a safe place. Chickens can be easily startled, so make sure to move slowly and give them plenty of time to adjust to their new environment. With patience and practice, you’ll soon be an expert at handling chickens!