Chicken herding is an essential skill for backyard poultry keepers, especially when managing free-range flocks. It might seem straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to frustration for both you and your chickens. By avoiding these errors, you can ensure a smoother and less stressful herding experience for everyone involved.
1. Rushing the Process
One of the most frequent mistakes is trying to rush chickens into their coop or a specific area. Chickens are naturally curious and cautious creatures, and they don’t respond well to pressure or hurried movements. When herding chickens, always move at a calm and steady pace. Trying to rush them can lead to chaos, with birds scattering in all directions, making the process longer and more difficult.
Solution: Approach herding with patience and maintain a slow, deliberate pace. Use gentle movements to guide them rather than chasing or startling them.
2. Not Setting Clear Boundaries
Without clear boundaries, chickens may dart off in the wrong direction, making herding frustrating. Not preparing the area properly before herding can result in chickens running into unsafe or undesired spaces.
Solution: Before herding, set up clear boundaries, such as using temporary fencing or objects like boards to block off certain areas. This helps channel the chickens toward their destination. If you’re herding toward a coop or enclosed space, make sure the entry is wide and unobstructed.
3. Herding Alone
Trying to herd a large number of chickens by yourself can be overwhelming. Chickens may try to escape in different directions, making it difficult to guide them effectively.
Solution: If possible, recruit a second person to help. One person can guide from the back while the other blocks any escape routes or directs the flock from the sides. With teamwork, the process is more controlled, and chickens are less likely to scatter.
4. Herding in Poor Lighting Conditions
Chickens have poor night vision, and herding them in low light can create unnecessary stress and confusion. They rely on daylight for navigation, so attempting to herd them during dusk or early morning without proper light can cause panic.
Solution: Herd chickens during daylight hours, preferably late afternoon when they naturally start heading toward their coop. If you must herd in low light, use soft, non-blinding lighting to gently guide them.
5. Ignoring the Role of Training
Many chicken keepers overlook the fact that chickens can be trained. If you only herd them during emergencies or random occasions, they might not respond well. Regular training or conditioning can make chickens more responsive to herding commands or routines.
Solution: Incorporate training into your daily routine by feeding chickens in their coop or designated area at the same time each day. Over time, they will associate that area with food and safety, making herding easier. You can also use verbal cues or light tapping sounds to signal it’s time to move.
Conclusion
Herding chickens doesn’t have to be a stressful task if you avoid these common mistakes. By approaching the process with patience, setting clear boundaries, enlisting help when needed, choosing the right time of day, and incorporating some training, you’ll find herding your flock becomes a smooth and efficient routine. Your chickens will feel less stressed, and you’ll experience less frustration, making for a happier flock and a happier keeper.
