handling babies

[missmad]

baby is nearly 2 weeks old and has feathers growing (he/she is going to be sky blue like mum) i have been handling it very gently now for about 1.5 weeks whats the best way to handle them from this point at the moment im sorta just letting him snuggle and keep warm and gently stroking him, is thins correct? what is the best way/things to do for a nice tame baby...

[BUUZBEE]

your doing a A+ job! with my babies, i just hold them, letting them snuggle in my hands, when mom yells for them, i give them back

[missmad]

about the whole thing, mum doesnt callat all and the baby has only once screamed for mum when i opened the end of the box up to take him out so all is going well i am taking him for about 5 minute lots at the moment, when do they actually leave the nest?

[redgirl]

awww bet its amazing holding them that long

[BUUZBEE]

yes, i have a few hens that dont call.

about 4 weeks if i remeber right

[ETAHoffman]

As long as you keep them warm and protected from falls, etc., you can hold them for quite a while. I simply cup them in my hand(s) and talk softly to them. I don't stroke them for fear of any possible pain that may be caused by pressing on new feather shafts. They seem to enjoy the attention and are certainly a lot more tame than they would otherwise be when they leave the nest box.