Clicker Training Chickens

Our new pullets aren't as used to being handled as were our last flock of hens. And because they don't come when called, they can't leave the chicken run to wander the yard.

So I'm working on training them. I know I could do more, but for now all I'm doing is taking special treats to them once a day and feeding them while making my chicken call (cheeck-cheeck-cheeck). They're beginning to associate me and the call with treats. This doesn't mean they trust me yet, but at least they have started making greeting noises when they see me. I hunker down in the run with the treats and hold very still. I put the treats close to me and make them come near to get them. The boldest one will sometimes take a treat from my hand.

This may work eventually. Or I could step up my game. Do you know that... [via Homegrown Evolution]