Fowl

Question 1

Fowl

Answer 1

Fowl must occasionally be restrained for collection of blood or vaccination. Chickens and turkeys are usually group-housed in large pens.

These generally docile animals are no problem to restrain, but be more careful with roosters. They can be quite aggressive. A hen may also attack when you attempt to remove eggs from her nest.

Question 2

Catching net.

Answer 2

A catching net serves to remove individual birds from a flock.

The net is usually attached to the end of a long-handled wooden pole. The net is placed over the bird and then turned up, trapping the bird inside.

Nets are least likely to injure the bird, but must be used gently.

Question 3

Catching hook.

Answer 3

A catching hook is often used to catch chickens and turkeys.

The hook is usually about five inches long and attached to a long-handled pole. Loop this hook around the bird’s leg.

Question 4

Approaching and Capturing Fowl

Answer 4

While chickens and turkeys aren’t especially aggressive, they can be a challenge to capture. Animals kept in an outdoor enclosure may scatter as you enter it. Always enter the enclosure slowly and confidently. Most fowl will allow you to approach them in an open yard. To capture a chicken:

Step 1: Approach and stand next to the bird.

Step 2: Reach down and grasp the animal’s legs quickly.

Step 3: Pull the bird up so that its head is facing the ground.

You may carry tame chickens in this manner or under your arm.

Don’t chase them if the birds are especially excited; use a catching hook or net to hold them in place, then pick them up by the legs.

Turkeys should also be grasped first with a catching hook or net. Once you’ve caught it, approach the bird and wrap your arm around its body.

Pull the animal close to your side as you pick it up. Carry the turkey under your arm with its head toward your back.

Question 5

Approaching and Capturing Chicks

Answer 5

Chicks will usually scatter quickly when you approach. You can either scoop them up with a net or you can herd them together and direct the group toward an examination area.

Question 6

Restraining Fowl

Answer 6

You can restrain fowl for physical examination and most technical procedures by holding them against a solid surface.

Don’t handle the bird roughly. Birds have very fragile skeletal systems and their legs and wings break easily. Hold the bird’s head loosely in one hand and restrain its feet with the other.

If the bird is receiving oral medications, you’ll usually have to hold it with its neck outstretched.

Question 7

Transporting Fowl

Answer 7

Fowl must be placed in small crates before transport. The crates, which may have dividers to separate the animals, are loaded and stacked on trucks.