newcountrygirl Posted April 2, 2012 Share Posted April 2, 2012 (edited) I have three chickens. I have had them for about 2 years but they have always been in a WIR or the Eglu run. Now we have moved to our new place I was hoping that i might be able to let them free range for a bit each day. What's the best way to go about it and What happens if I cant get them to go back into the run? Edited May 9, 2012 by Guest Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Olly Posted April 2, 2012 Share Posted April 2, 2012 If you've had them that long they are probably already used to seeing you as a provider of food, but the best way is to train them while they are still in the run, to recognise a call, or a particular coloured dish, or something else, as a signal for treats. That way, if they are out free-ranging and you shout the call, or rattle the dish, they should come running. Mine go in very easily with a handful of corn. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jennym Posted April 2, 2012 Share Posted April 2, 2012 The shake of a mealworm tub makes a distinctive noise...click below for demo! http://flic.kr/p/bFWack Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pipichick Posted April 2, 2012 Share Posted April 2, 2012 Throwing bits of banana into the cube run, quickly ensures all 4 of mine return home Left to their own devises though all are back before dark. Good luck, I am sure your girls will have a great time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
newcountrygirl Posted April 3, 2012 Author Share Posted April 3, 2012 I will try the "luring with mealworms" All three of my chickens are so greedy hopefully it will work. Thanks everyone Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
newcountrygirl Posted May 8, 2012 Author Share Posted May 8, 2012 Let my girls out for a short time today - the first time they have been allowed. They were so funny. I had some sunflower seeds and was hand feeding them. Then I let them have a run around. They all stayed pretty close to the run and when I wanted them to go back in i threw a handful of the seeds and in they went. I will try again tomorrow and let them stay out a bit longer. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...