[Ice]

Ok, I've built Alcatraz Mk2 for my hens and need to move them inside.  Unfortunately, they spook really easily and I have never managed to handle them.  They got worse recently when one died. 

I've heard that they won't put up much of a fight if you move them when it is dark.  Is this true please?  I really don't want to traumatise them.

[GrannieAnnie]

I usually move ours in the evening Ice, they are much quieter when trying to get to sleep.  In fact I've got 3 to move, but all 3 are at the moment living in different houses, and I keep putting it off as I'm just a tad worried that they might not like their new boyfriend, Beefy the Indian Game Cockerel!   

[Ice]

Well I've just been out and it's still light out there.   Shone the torch in and they are wide awake.

[GrannieAnnie]

Perhaps they were reading in bed if they still had some light?? lol  The torch may have helped to wake them up too Ice   

[Ice]

Well an hour later and they are as wide awake as I am.   Will have to do it the hard way and get my brother to catch them.  It's such a shame they can't appreciate the effort that's been made in building them a new condo.

[Casey76]

Well even if they aren't asleep they will be sleepy!

I can't get near my chickens during the day, but at night, even when they have first gone into the coop I can pick them up quite easily.

You just have to be brave and pick one up - one hand either side of the body and try to pin their wings to their sides.  Move the chicken to your side and tuck under your arm.

[nicky d]

hope the move went well Ice, looking forward to piccies.  nickyx