Goldstar Posted October 26, 2011 Share Posted October 26, 2011 Yesterday I bought 3 POL hybrids. I put them in the coop last night. Well this morning they haven't ventured out yet. I'm not sure what to do, should I leave them to it and hope they come out or should I take them out? I am worried that they haven't had anything to eat or drink this morning. I am also worried that they won't get in the coop tonight and out again tomorrow, if I take them out. What do you think I should do? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cavysqueak Posted October 26, 2011 Share Posted October 26, 2011 I've always found the same issue with every set of 'new' hens. They just are not sure of what to do. I give them a chance, anything from half an hour to an hour, then I open the egg port and gently shoo them out. Don't worry about them getting scared of you, as long as you are gentle, with no sudden big movements they'll be fine. Tonight just put a torch in the area they are to sleep in (in my Eglu I put the torch in the nest box) before it gets dark. If the light is fading, but its still fairly light and they haven't gone to bed themselves you might need to then get into the run and 'direct' them into the coop. I have ended up crawling like a commando on my tummy to get 'new' girls into the Eglu before! I have been worried that I've scared them when doing this, but by the next morning they've forgiven me (or forgotten the stress) and then have taken themselves to bed from the second night onwards. I usually use a torch for about a week before letting them go into bed without it. Oh ... don't forget to take the torch out of the coop once they're in bed and you've shut the door! Hope this helps, enjoy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hammy72 Posted October 26, 2011 Share Posted October 26, 2011 Mine spent the 1st day just peeking out, I guess it might be different as you already have some chickens so they will also be sussing out their order in the flock and how to get to the food. I also have a Tikka (goldline) and a Snowflake (Light Sussex), and love the name Coco! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Goldstar Posted October 26, 2011 Author Share Posted October 26, 2011 Thank you both for your replies. I had to get them out in the end. My 2 original girls are free ranging . Hopefully they will put themselves to bed tonight and get out in the morning. Thanks again Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
