Pavlov's Chickens

We decided to do a little Pavlov-esq experiment with our chickens to see just how easily they could be trained. 

 

And guess what!?

 

 

It worked!

 

Not only did it work, but it only took them a handful of times to catch on!

 

 

Remember that little knocker Jason put on the outside of the coop door?  It was the knocker from the front door of our old house.

 

 

We decided that we would knock with it two times anytime we were bringing them a treat. 

 

 

After the third or fourth time, they started coming right around the corner after I knocked.  This has also helped them not be so skittish around me.  A few of them will eat right out of my hand now.  They used to wait until I dropped the food and stepped back before they would eat, but not anymore :)

 

 

Bork is almost always the first one around the corner and to the food.  We're wondering if she is at the top of the pecking order.  She also will peck at my thumb/finger in between bites until I drop whatever food I'm holding.  It makes me laugh every time!

 

Here is a little video I shot from my phone.  I apologize for the shakiness - hard to video, knock, hold a banana and feed the chickens with only two hands!

 

 

They are still a little unsure of me, but I'm working on it. 

Just let me love you chickens!!

 

~ Sara :)