PSA: Your hens can hold a grudge longer than you think

I read in the University of Georgia's poultry science notes that chickens remember faces for at least 30 days, but I saw it firsthand after I accidentally stepped on my Rhode Island Red's tail last March. She avoided me for a solid 3 weeks, then started attacking my boot every time I came near the coop. Anyone else have a bird that holds a personal vendetta like mine?

2 comments

2 Comments

sethanderson29d ago

Aw heck, they ain't got that long a memory, they just learn your boots are scary!

the_julia1mo ago

You ever try bribing them with mealworms? That's what finally worked with my Buff Orpington after she decided my flip-flops were public enemy number one. I spent a whole week just tossing treats at her from a distance, not making eye contact, not trying to touch her at all. Then I slowly moved closer while she was distracted eating, and eventually she linked me with good things instead of the boot incident. It took about 10 days of that before she stopped charging at me, though she still gives me the side-eye when I walk past the run. Honestly, they're like tiny feathered elephants, they don't forget, but they'll forgive if the snack game is strong enough.