how to train chickens
Teaching your hens to come when called is a useful skill to have, and if you are looking for tips on how to train chickens, we can help. We have tips that will show you how you can quickly teach them to come, no matter where they are, every time you call.
Raising chickens is more than feed and shelter; it’s protection, and that is what this article is about. How to protect your entire flock with a simple skill.
If you’re a chicken owner, one of the most useful skills you can teach your flock is to come when called. Not only does this make it easier for you to gather them when needed, but it also serves as an important safety measure in case of any danger. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chicken owner, these tips and tricks will help you successfully teach your feathered friends this useful skill.
Can you train a chicken?
The answer is yes! Chickens are intelligent creatures and can be trained to learn a variety of skills. Some tricks and other important tasks a flock may need to do in certain situations.
What should you train your chickens to do?
There are a few skills that will help with the care of your flock that you will want your chickens to know.
- To come when called – important for their safety.
- To wear a harness – used to protect your hens from an aggressive rooster.
- To be touched or held – important so you can give vet care as needed.
- Functional skills – such as where to lay eggs or how to use a perch.
How to Train Chickens
This is the most important skill to teach your entire flock as it will allow you to call everyone in at night to the coop but also get them home if you see or sense danger in your area. This may be a stray dog or a hawk flying above.
To train your chickens to come when called, you will need two things: food and a call. Chickens are very food-motivated and will learn quickly that a call means treat.
Chicken Treats for Training:
- Fruit or veggie pieces
- Mealworms
- Corn
For calls, you will want to use words and a sound in your voice, as both will alert your flock to the command you are using. You can use any words at all, just be sure they are the same, and your tone is the same when you call.
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Words for Calling in Chickens:
- Chick-chick-chick!
- Home Hens!
- Come, girls!
How to Train Chickens to Come When Called
Use a bucket to hold your treats, as the noise will also help your hens respond correctly. You will want to do this close to your chickens until they understand what it is you want them to do.
- Shake the bucket and call your chickens using the words and tone of voice you decided on.
- Staring out, be just a few feet away.
- When they come, give a sprinkle of treats as a reward.
- Step a few feet away and do it again.
- Do this a few times a day, moving further away each time.
Chickens are quick learners and will pick up this new skill in just a day. You will have a few chickens pick things up right away, associating the sound of her name with the delivery of treats. Any slow learners will follow the other’s lead and run to your voice, knowing food is on its way.
Overall, training your chickens to come when called is an essential skill for any flock owner. It not only allows for easy management of your chickens but also ensures their safety in case of potential danger. With just a little time and patience, you can train your chickens to come when called, keeping everyone safe inside their coop at night.
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