Catching a chicken might sound simple, but anyone who’s tried it knows it can quickly turn into a wild chase! Whether you’re a backyard chicken enthusiast or a farmer, knowing how to catch a chicken safely and calmly is essential. Chickens are fast, wary, and surprisingly agile, but with the right approach, you can catch them without stress for both you and your feathered friends.
In this article, we’ll explore practical, easy-to-follow methods to catch a chicken, from gentle luring to smart trapping techniques. Let’s dive in!
Why Catching Chickens Can Be Tricky
Chickens have a natural flight response-they get scared easily and run fast, averaging about 9 mph, which is close to an average human’s speed. They also flap their wings vigorously when caught, which can make grabbing them a challenge. The goal is to avoid chasing them wildly, which only tires you out and stresses the chicken.
Best Times and Places to Catch a Chicken
One of the easiest times to catch a chicken is at night when they are roosting. Chickens settle down and are less active, making them easier to pick up without a fuss. Using a flashlight pointed downward to avoid startling them, you can gently grab them over their wings to prevent flapping.
During the day, catching chickens requires more strategy since they are alert and active.
Friendly and Effective Ways to Catch a Chicken
1. Bait and Grab
This is one of the most popular and least stressful methods.
– Toss some chicken feed or treats like bread crumbs or mealworms in an open area.
– Wait quietly for the chickens to gather and start feeding.
– Slowly approach the chicken you want to catch from behind.
– Gently scoop it up by supporting its body-avoid grabbing by the neck or wings to prevent injury.
Training your chickens to come to you for treats makes this method even easier over time.
2. Herding and Cornering
Instead of chasing, try to herd chickens calmly:
– Walk slowly and deliberately towards them with your arms out to appear larger.
– Guide them gently towards a fence, corner, or enclosed space.
– Once cornered, you can catch them more easily without a frantic chase.
Using a fence or net as a barrier can help limit their escape routes, making it easier to catch them.
3. Use a Chicken Trap or Box Trap
For particularly elusive chickens, traps can be a lifesaver:
– Set up a live trap or a box trap with bait inside.
– Scatter some feed leading into the trap to lure the chicken.
– When the chicken enters to eat, the trap closes gently behind it.
– This method avoids chasing and reduces stress for both you and the bird.
Make sure to use traps sparingly and humanely.
4. Catching at Night on the Roost
As mentioned, catching chickens when they are roosting is a “no fuss” method:
– Enter the coop quietly with a flashlight pointed down.
– Gently grab the chicken over its wings to prevent flapping.
– This method works well for even the most agile daytime birds.
5. The Shepherd’s Hook or Wire Method (Use with Caution)
This involves using a hooked wire to catch a chicken by the leg:
– It’s effective but risky and can injure the bird if done improperly.
– Not recommended for beginners or children.
– Never use around the neck.
Tips to Make Catching Chickens Easier and Safer
– Stay calm and move slowly: Sudden movements scare chickens.
– Wear appropriate clothing: Long sleeves and gloves can protect you from scratches.
– Approach from behind: Chickens have poor rear vision and are less likely to see you coming.
– Practice patience: Sometimes waiting for the right moment is better than rushing.
– Train your chickens: Regularly feeding treats by hand helps build trust and makes catching easier.
How to Hold a Chicken Properly After Catching
Once you catch a chicken, hold it securely but gently:
– Support its body with one hand under the breast.
– Hold the wings gently against the body to prevent flapping.
– Keep the chicken close to your body to make it feel safe.
This reduces stress and prevents injury.
Catching a chicken doesn’t have to be a wild chase or a stressful ordeal. By using bait, gentle herding, traps, or catching them at night, you can make the process smooth and safe for both you and your chickens. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be catching chickens like a pro in no time!
Catching chickens is easier when you’re calm, patient, and use the right techniques. Try these friendly methods and enjoy stress-free chicken keeping!