Madbird Posted November 14, 2008 Share Posted November 14, 2008 Ok, the girls have been here nearly a week (week on Sunday) and I want to let them out of their run to free-range - particulary as it looks like we may have a couple of dry days. Am really nervous about it.. I know the cochins will be fine, they can't fly and are already pretty friendly and will let me pick them up... but am worried about the others, particulary Lady Legbar who is still a bit flighty and is apparently quite a good flyer! Any hints/tips or words of encouragement? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
batty hen Posted November 14, 2008 Share Posted November 14, 2008 You'll be fine Madbird. It is nerve wracking, we were terrified the first time we opened the run imagining they would all be off in every direction. In reality they only ventured about six feet away from the door at first. They and you will get braver the more they are allowed to freerange. Good luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PurpleTree Posted November 14, 2008 Share Posted November 14, 2008 I was really nervous too, eventhough I clipped their wings before letting them out, but they didn't go further than the patio. Actually the first time Mash and Bubble stayed in the run, and Squeak made straight for the kitchen door, when I shooed her back out she sat in a plant pot. By the third time of being let out though they all came rushing out and Squeak decided to jump onto the run and from there onto the fence Think she scared herself though and came down with a bit of encouragement. She has tried it a couple of times more but I lift her down as soon as she jumps onto the run now. Think she's going to be trouble that one. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
poachedegg Posted November 14, 2008 Share Posted November 14, 2008 Keep some corn in your pocket to bribe them - just in case you need to get them back in quickly! Good luck - you'll be fine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted November 14, 2008 Share Posted November 14, 2008 I'd do it late afternoon so that they wander back home when the light begins to fade. Sweetcorn always gets them back in for me. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
helenmb Posted November 14, 2008 Share Posted November 14, 2008 I'd do it late afternoon so that they wander back home when the light begins to fade. Sweetcorn always gets them back in for me. I'll second this one - I use mealworms too as these are their faves. I have a very flighty Leghorn who I expect will be off like a shot so I always keep an eye on her when I'm out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
