10 Ways to Get Chickens to Like You

So, you’ve decided to venture into the world of chicken-keeping. You’ve built the coop, you’ve set up the feeders, done a lot of research, and you’ve got the most adorable little flock of chickens. But there’s one problem: They don’t like you. You approach the chicken yard with excitement, hoping for a little feathered affection, but instead, they scatter like they’ve seen a hawk in the sky. What’s going on? Why do your chickens act like you’re the villain in their daily soap opera?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Chickens are complex social creatures with unique personalities, and getting them to warm up to you takes a little patience, effort, and a lot of love. So, if you’re ready to become your chickens’ best friend, let’s dive into how to get them to like you!

Also, a note about this blog post – I’m writing this from the perspective of a city backyard chicken keeper. Our girls are pets for us.

1. Start with Patience—Chickens Are Naturally Cautious

Before you go rushing in with all your love and treats, it’s important to understand that chickens are naturally cautious animals. In the wild, they are prey animals, and their instincts tell them to be wary of anything that might harm them. It can take time for them to get comfortable with your presence, especially if they’ve had limited human interaction before.

So, step one is simple: be patient. Think of yourself as a chicken whisperer in training. Your chickens need to learn that you are not a threat. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on their personalities and experiences with humans. Keep in mind that even though chickens are social, they’re not going to rush into your arms like a puppy. It’s going to take some time to make them your feathered friends.

Another key to having friendly chickens is to avoid quick movements and keep young children away at first. My daughter is obsessed with our chickens and she’s spent lots of time around them – but since a young age we’ve had to teach her to be gentle with our beloved pets. I know, I know, they’re farm animals but we live in the city so they get to be pets for us. 

2. Spend Time with Them—But Don’t Expect Instant BFF Status

A for how to get chickens to like you and win their affection you’ll need to spend quality time with them on a regular basis. This doesn’t mean you have to stand in the coop all day, but regular, calm visits can make a huge difference in how they view you.

Try sitting quietly near the chicken run and let them come to you. If you hover around them too much or try to pick them up immediately, you might intimidate them. Instead, sit down, relax, and let them see that you’re not going to harm them. Over time, your presence will become a normal part of their routine, and they’ll get used to you being around. 

Another fun way to bond with your chickens is by spending time near their food. Chickens love to eat, so if you sit near the food or treat area, they may start associating you with something they enjoy. Just don’t be that person who brings treats every single time; you want to avoid making them expect food at every visit, as that could shift their attention from bonding to solely seeking snacks (but it could also lead to you being their favorite person.) 

3. Give Them Treats (But Don’t Go Overboard)

Speaking of food, chickens love treats, and using food as a bonding tool can work wonders in getting them to like you. Honestly, this is really the best way to win over your pet chickens. However, it’s important not to overdo it. Chickens are like us—if they only ever get treats, they’ll get spoiled and overweight. You don’t want them to associate you only with the snack-giver role and not as a trusted, friendly human.

The key is to find that balance. A handful of cracked corn, some mealworms, or even a few fresh veggies (leafy greens, cucumber, or peas) will go a long way in winning them over. You can even give them occasional leftovers (mine love sourdough crepes.) Start by offering the treats from your hand while standing near the chicken run, and once they get comfortable with your presence, you can begin hand-feeding them. This is a great way to build trust, but be gentle and patient! You don’t want to force anything. If they’re hesitant, try placing the treat near them first, and let them come to it.

4. Speak to Them in a Soft, Calm Voice To Get Chickens To Like You

While chickens can’t understand what you’re saying, they can definitely pick up on your tone of voice. A calm, gentle voice helps your chickens understand that you’re not a threat. Avoid loud noises as it will startle them. Think of it as chicken therapy.

The more you speak to them in soft, reassuring tones, the more they’ll become accustomed to your voice. You don’t need to say anything profound; a simple “Good morning, girls!” or “How’s my favorite flock doing today?” will do. The goal is to make your chickens feel comfortable with your voice, so they don’t associate your presence with stress or danger. Eventually, they’ll associate your voice with calmness and positive vibes.

My neighbors think I am crazy (they’ve told me so) but they hear me signing to my girls every morning when I go to let them out. They (the chickens, not my neighbors) hear me and come running to the chicken run door!

5. Slow and Steady Wins the Race—Don’t Try to Pick Them Up Too Soon

I know, it’s hard. You’ve seen those adorable pictures of people cradling their chickens, and you want to experience that level of bond. But here’s the thing: Chickens are not like cats or dogs. They’re not naturally inclined to enjoy being held or cuddled (although, some chickens do enjoy it more than others). Forcing physical interaction before they’re ready could set your progress back significantly.

Instead, let your chickens come to you and avoid sudden movements. Once they’ve become accustomed to you being around and accepting treats from your hand, with slow movements you can try offering them a gentle pet on the back or side. If they seem receptive, you can gradually work up to picking them up. Always be slow and gentle, ensuring that your chickens are relaxed and comfortable before attempting anything too adventurous.

If they resist, don’t force it. Just back off for a while and try again later. Remember: trust takes time, and you’re trying to become a friend, not an enemy.

6. Raise Them From Chicks To Get Chickens To Like You

Raising baby chicks instead of buying full-grown hens or letting a broody hen hatch them offers several benefits, particularly when it comes to building a stronger bond with your flock. It is one of the most effective ways to ensure that you are at the top of the pecking order and have a friendly flock. Handling them as chicks usually makes for friendlier, more relaxed adult chickens. Start by putting your hand flat in their brooder with a handful of chick feed or chik grit and let them come to you. They most likely won’t at first, but be consistent! Next thing you know they’ll be sitting on your husband’s head.

7. Learn to Recognize and Respect Chicken Body Language

Just like any other animal, chickens communicate through body language. Learning to read their signals will help you understand when they’re feeling comfortable and when they’re not. Here are a few things to look for:

• Calm, relaxed body posture: If your chickens are standing or sitting upright, pecking around calmly, or doing the “chicken squat,” they’re likely relaxed and feeling safe.
• Fluffing up: When a chicken puffs up its feathers, it’s usually a sign of contentment. They might also do this when they’re trying to assert dominance, but if they’re relaxed and calm while doing it, you’re in good shape.
• Pacing or avoidance: If a chicken is pacing around or running away from you, they’re not quite ready for interaction. Respect their need for space and try again later.

Being able to understand these cues will make it much easier to bond with your chickens because you’ll know when they’re open to interaction and when they need a little distance.

8. Give them a safe and happy home

If you have your chickens don’t have enough space then no matter what you do to make them like you, they will be miserable and unhappy. When it comes to your chicken flock, think of their coop as their personal luxury apartment—comfortable, safe, and just the right size! A well-designed coop keeps your flock protected from predators, harsh weather, and even the occasional nosy neighbor (or, you know, raccoon). Chickens need a secure place to roost at night where they can sleep soundly without worrying about anything sneaky lurking around. A cozy coop with proper ventilation and enough room for each chicken to spread its wings will keep them happy, healthy, and stress-free. Plus, it helps with egg production! Chickens are much more likely to lay regularly when they feel safe and at ease in their environment.

But don’t forget—chickens need space to stretch their legs too! While a secure coop is essential for nighttime, your chickens also need a safe outdoor space where they can roam, peck, scratch, and just do chicken things. Giving them plenty of room to explore helps keep them active and mentally stimulated, which is important for their well-being. Think of it like giving them a little backyard oasis to enjoy each day. Whether it’s a spacious run or a chicken-friendly garden, the more space they have to roam, the happier they’ll be—and in return, you’ll get the perks of a healthy, stress-free flock! Let them free-range in the backyard while you’re out in the yard with them! 

10. Pick Friendly Breeds

Last but not least, pick a bread that is known to be more friendly to humans. In my experience, Americana Chickens don’t mind physical contact. They form strong bonds with their owners and the rest of the flock. When I was pregnant, my Lavender Americana would jump in my lap anytime I sat down when they were out free-ranging. My Splash Americana Pearl flys to my shoulder and sits like a parrot. Now, one of our newest additions, a Blue Americana named Penny, lets me carry her around the yard like a baby. I haven’t owned any Silkie Chickens but they are known to be the most cuddly. Buff Orpingtons, Plymouth Rocks, Cochins, and Wynadetts are more great options.

Alternatively, my Easter Egger Chicken and Black Australorp chicken have never let me touch them – but that’s okay! They are all individual chickens with their own personalities. 

I get all of my chickens from Meyer Hatchery and I can’t recommend them enough! Great variety of breeds and amazing customer service. No affiliation, I just love them!

Conclusion

Getting chickens to like you might not happen overnight, but with time, patience, and a little creativity, you’ll win their hearts. Remember, chickens are unique individuals with their own personalities, and not every chicken will bond with you in the same way. Some might be shy, while others may want to be your lap chicken in no time. Don’t force it. I have several chickens that even after raising them from Day 1, singing to them every morning, and giving them treats, still won’t come near me – and that’s okay!

The most important thing is to approach your chickens with love, kindness, and respect. Before you know it, you’ll be the one getting those cute little pecks and perhaps even some soft coos as they accept you as one of their own. And when that happens, you’ll know that all the effort you put in was worth it.

So, go ahead—be patient, bring those treats, and let the chicken love begin!