[chicken george25]

Hi all

Ive have just got my new chickens ive had them three days now and they only come out of there house to eat and drink then go straight back in? I have 2 gold partridge pekin bantams and a black pekin bantam, is this normal behaviour? any advice would be appreciated

Thanks

 George
 

[Kytie]

I wouldn't worry, they're getting used to their new surroundings, so far all they know is their house, so that's where they feel most secure. Give it a couple of days and curiosity will get them out and about. My 3 were the same and I thought they were never going to venture out but they did. 

[Lewjam]

Yup i wouldn’t worry, your problem will come when they get comfy and confident.  Then the issue is getting them back in!!

Once they are settled, try offering treats - leave a few dried meal worms out side the coop so they get a taste for them, then you will be able to start hand feeding them.

If you want them to be really tame, start handling them regularly - they put up a fight to begin with, but if you give them treats while held, they get to like the idea.  Mine run to my feed when a whistle now and wait to be picked up/try and pearch on my arms heh.  They started out like yours, hiding in the nice safe dark coop all day!

[Kathie]

We had this problem a few years ago with 4 of our girls, we realised that they had been barn raised and had never been out foraging.  It only took a few days before they were relishing free ranging.  Good luck.