If you have ever owned a chicken, then you know that a chicken is not a puppy. They will not run with you on the trail or lie down for you to pet their tummies. It’d be fun if you could run through fields with your chicken perched on your shoulder like a pirate’s parrot. Yet, sometimes all they do is run away from us.
If you’ve ever wanted a backyard buddy who lays eggs and follows you around like a loyal pup, @theprojectchannel4434 has some tricks.
Why Make Chickens Your Friend?
Chickens are more than just backyard egg machines—they’re intelligent, social, and downright entertaining. Studies show that chickens can recognize up to 100 faces (yes, including yours!), solve simple puzzles, and even show empathy for their flock mates.
They provide free pest control, eating annoying insects while fertilizing your garden. A tamed chicken can be as affectionate as a cat, following you around and even enjoying a good cuddle.
Who wouldn’t want a feathery BFF with a knack for laying breakfast? Here’s how to make a chicken like you.
1. Use Your Hands
The Project Channel shows us that the best tool you have in your hands is, well, your hands. A chick may not fly to your hand like a sugar glider at the sight of open arms, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. Chickens may be cagy at first, and how you handle them may dictate if they will ever trust you again.
The key is to move slowly, avoiding sudden motions. It’s best to let the chicken see that your hands mean no harm. Extend your hand gently, palm up, and allow your chicken to observe and approach at its own pace. You’ll be enjoying chicken snuggles in no time.
2. Get a Chicken
This may seem obvious, but you can’t tame a chicken without an actual chicken. Maybe you have one chick or a whole brood; choose the one that is less sassy to start with. Each bird has a unique personality—some are naturally friendly, while others prefer to peck your hand at every attempt. Maybe start with a chick, like the video does.
3. Bring Treats
Food is the ultimate peace offering. Chickens love treats like mealworms, cracked corn, or small pieces of fruit. He doesn’t just throw the treat at them and send them scampering. See how he places the chick gently on the treats can, and she gets eating? Once they associate you with delicious snacks, they’ll be more inclined to trust you.
What Else Can You Do to Tame Your Chicken?
Image credit: Depositphotos.
1. Talk to Your Chicken
Communication isn’t just for your wife and kids; chickens, too, would appreciate it. They may not understand your words, but they recognize tones and will become more comfortable with your voice.
2. Spend Time Around Them
If you want the chickens to be your friends, treat them like you would treat a friend. Call on them often, and see what they’re up to and who’s stressed by all the chicken bills. The more they see you, the more they trust you.
3. Let Them Come to You
You also wouldn’t want to be friends with someone who keeps chasing you around, would you? Chicken scare easily; chasing them will only make them wary. It may even make caring for them harder if they take off when they see you. Bond with them, and they will come running whenever they see you.
With these steps in mind, you’ll be on your new way to making some new feathery best friends.
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