A new bully

[chris503632]

Hi everyone. I'm looking for some advice.

We have 3 chickens - a Rhode Island Red and two Buff Orpingtons. They have been together for something close to 18 months, but in the last few weeks, one of the Orpies has started picking on the other Orpie. Up until now they have been great pals. The one being picked on had a few weeks of being incredibly broody towards the end of summer - could this explain why her pal has suddenly started picking on her.

Its not all the time, and mainly consists of the odd peck and some chasing - usually when treats are around.

I've read it can be boredom or close quarters, but they have a big run (5 metres by 30 metres, with grass, bushes and trees as well as shelters, covered dustbaths, perches etc). Food is freely available as is water.

I've also read it can be if one of them is poorly, but the one being picked on is in fine health. Both of them stopped laying for winter within a week of each other, so I don;t think the lack of eggs signifies anything bad.

They are both eating plenty, and get on fine a lot of the time.

Has anyone got any ideas? There is a chance we will have to house them due to birdflu in the UK and I'd like to get the problem sorted before they go in the run (2 x 4m's) as they will be in closer confines.

Any help would be gratefully received.

Kind regards

Chris

 

[sourland]

Broody hens are frequently picked on because of their change in demeanor. The odd peck and some chasing is not a real problem unless it escalates to blood letting. Things will even out as the broody hen starts to act normally. Make sure that she is getting enough to eat and drink.