Stedic Posted May 18, 2010 Share Posted May 18, 2010 I've had my first girls since Sunday night, and I'm starting to think about getting them ready for their first free range. I just wondered about getting some advice from you all about the first stressful couple of times! I need to fence of my two raised veg beds to stop the little blighters. There's an area which is currently just earth and two plastic compost bins which is right next to their run - do you think it would be worth fencing this off to give them (and me) a smaller area to try to begin with? I could probably do it fairly easily with some of that fine plastic mess, or use the stronger stuff (more expense though). The whole garden has 6ft+ high fences, but there are a few launch pads (the top of the ark for instance) - but they have had their wings clipped. The fence is lower right near the house (4 - 5 ft), but I can section this area off easily. I've managed to get them to eat out of my hand tonight, so hopefully treat training is starting to work - any further tips for a nervous first timer? When do you think it would be safe enough to try it? Steve Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted May 18, 2010 Share Posted May 18, 2010 Hhahah yes the first time is stressful. First dont let them out until a eek after you have had them so they definatly know that their house is their home. I got 2 new girls saturday and this eek is going so slo i just want to let them out. Secondly dont fence an area off except the veg patches. Let them roam but keep an eye out just watch them this will make them braver. If you feel there are places not safe or the chcikens can excape then do fence off an area. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chickyhazel Posted May 18, 2010 Share Posted May 18, 2010 At first we let ours roam in the "chicken garden", a small area with the and in, which has been reduced to mud, then we let them in the whole garden. That way, they know their way back and aren't overwhelmed. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mabelandflosmum Posted May 18, 2010 Share Posted May 18, 2010 Get them used to the rattle of corn in a "treats pot", then they will come running when you need to shut them in the run. I rattle mine and shout "chickens", they appear very quickly and follow the corn when it's thrown in the run, they fall for it every time (small brains!) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
