To get chickens to like you, spend time with them daily, offer treats like seeds or fruits, and speak softly to build trust and familiarity.
Building trust with chickens takes patience and strategy. Unlike dogs or cats, chickens won’t automatically warm up to humans. But with the right approach, you can transform skittish birds into friendly companions that seek your attention.
Why Some Chickens Fear Humans
Chickens instinctively view humans as potential predators. Their survival instincts tell them to flee from large, fast-moving creatures. Understanding this helps you adjust your behavior to appear less threatening.
Common Chicken Fears
- Sudden movements
- Looming overhead
- Grasping hands
- Loud noises
7 Steps to Win Your Chickens’ Trust
1. Move Like a Chicken
Chickens respond best to slow, deliberate movements. Crouch down to their level rather than standing over them. Approach from the side rather than head-on.
2. Become the Treat Dispenser
Food is the fastest way to a chicken’s heart. Try these favorites:
| Treat | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Mealworms | High protein, irresistible |
| Scratch grains | Great for scattering |
| Vegetable scraps | Healthy option |
3. Master the Art of Sitting Still
Bring a low chair or blanket into their space. Read or play on your phone while ignoring them. This shows you’re not a threat. Over time, curious chickens will investigate.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement
When chickens approach, reward them immediately with treats. This creates a positive association with your presence. Avoid punishing fearful behavior.
5. Talk Chicken
Develop a consistent call when bringing food. Chickens recognize specific sounds and will come running when they hear their “dinner bell.” Keep your voice calm and quiet.
6. Respect Their Space
Don’t force physical contact. Let chickens initiate touch first. Some may never enjoy being held, but will still bond in other ways. Learn more about training chickens to tolerate handling.
7. Be Patient With Different Ages
Baby chicks require gentler approaches than adults. For older chickens, consistency is key – daily short sessions work better than occasional long ones.
Breed Matters: Friendliest Chicken Types
Some breeds naturally tolerate humans better:
- Buff Orpingtons
- Rhode Island Reds
- Plymouth Rocks
- Cochins
Flighty breeds like Leghorns or Polish may need extra patience. Crested birds often benefit from feather trimming to improve visibility.
Common Bonding Mistakes
- Chasing chickens to catch them
- Grabbing from above (like a hawk)
- Moving too quickly
- Expecting immediate results
- Overfeeding unhealthy treats
Advanced Chicken Bonding Techniques
Once chickens are comfortable near you, try these next steps:
Teaching Perching
Hold a treat at knee height to encourage roosting on your leg. Eventually they’ll hop up without prompting.
Hand Feeding
Progress from scattering treats to offering them from your palm. Keep your hand flat and still.
Gentle Petting
Start with brief strokes along the back when they’re relaxed. Most chickens prefer being petted here rather than on the head.
Troubleshooting Shy Chickens
If progress stalls:
- Try different treats – preferences vary
- Adjust your sitting position – lower is better
- Visit at quieter times of day
- Wear the same clothing (chickens notice changes)
For more on chicken behavior, see this expert guide on building trust with poultry.
Special Considerations
With Baby Chicks
Start by hand-feeding crumbled hard boiled egg yolk. Gradually introduce other treats once they’re eating starter feed well.
Rescue Hens
Former battery hens often need extra time to adjust. Create safe hiding spots in their run where they can observe you from a distance.
Roosters
While some roosters become affectionate, others remain territorial. Never turn your back on an aggressive male. Learn their body language to avoid attacks.
For more tips on managing flock dynamics, check out this resource on creating positive chicken-human relationships.