Chicken Tractor question

[Rick]

Hello,

We have 5 laying hens (R.I. Reds) in a coop/chicken run, but want to add a chicken tractor to the mix.

I have a couple questions.

Is there a good way to move the ladies from the run to the tractor, and back? (I'm not above common bribery)

Also, do they handle someone moving the tractor around while they are inside?

Thanks,
Rick

[NCLee]

Can't answer about moving them in the tractor. For the move to the tractor, wait until they've gone to roost. Over the years that's the way we've moved chickens with the least fuss and stress on the birds.

Lee

[WileyCoyote]

The slow seize and kidnap in the early AM or Late PM when roosting is the way we do it. When they are all lined up it's easier to pick and choose who goes where. Takes two people - one to reach in and select, then a "hand-off" person to take them to the tractor - and CLOSE THE DOOR once the kidnapee is in!

Mine didn't like moving in the tractor at first, but now they practically DEMAND it, especially when they've decimated the 'old' plot. Of course, we move them (usually) still locked in the portable house during the AM or PM roost time. When they are in their 'yard' though, as long as you move it sloooowly, they will march along. They'll call you names, but they will march! :D

(When replacing the movable "coop to yard" doors of the portable coops, we actually had them inside the coop and slowly flipped it up on its back to access the door. There was a lot of swearing but they were fine.)

Remember, do it slowly so as not to upset their equilibrium.

[macgeoghagen]

I have a portable run made of PVC and wire that I move mine around in. They are all used to the sound of somebody tapping on a can or aluminum pie pan = food. If I tap the can I can get them to go anywhere. when I pull on the run with one hand I tap a can on the run with the other. That way they stay near the front of the run and their legs don't get run over.