Advice needed on how to reintroduce a rejected bird.

[iheartnh]

Do you have a way to isolate the bullies for a couple of days? Not together - keep them separate from the flock AND each other? If you can manage that, it would be worth a try. Re-introduce them one at a time, leaving the 'top bird' for last.

 

[MrsBachbach]

I really think you need to identify the top three bullies and keep them away for about a week. As IheatNH said, try to separate them too. If you have any dog crates that will work fine for keeping them in. Maybe some friends have some pet carriers you can borrow? Then introduce them one at a time, but not before at least a week so the abused hen will have time to adjust to the new pecking order. It appears everyone is pecking on her, because, the instigater is starting it. Try removing those birds, who ever is the first few birds to start it. Remove them. Let a new pecking order establish. When the old birds come back, they will have to deal with the new pecking order by themselves, and they will be more worried about the top of the order than the bottom. The bottom will get some attention, but not excessively so, I would think. Wait a few days inbetween to introduce each bird back. That's the only thing I can suggest except putting peepers on all the meanies.

 

[OmeletMan]

Checked on the flock when i got home. The abused chicken came out of the coop. I think she was in there most of the day. As soon as she came out the door they were on her.

I am going to try and separate out the bullies. I cant separate them all i only have one dog crate.

I think I am going to have to try and re-home her if this doesn't work.

 

[wantedman66]

Can you separate them in the pen or do you not have room,if not you really only have 2 options either rehome the bullies or the picked on one.Chances are pretty good that the bullies will eventually find another one too pick on though if you get rid of your low-level one,usually the temperament of the bully stays the same and they will continue to be trouble makers.

 

[MrsBachbach]

If you can find one or two more crates to keep the bullies seperate from each other, I think that would help also. Don't let them see each other. They won't like their new homes too much but should settle down.

 

[OmeletMan]

Well things seems to have sorted themselves out for the most part. She is still getting picked on but seems to be more accepted by the flock. Suddenly they will realize she is present and chase/peck her. This is still frustrating but it is definitely better overall.

 

[OmeletMan]

Things have improved more over time. She is getting bullied by one or two birds but seems to be holding her own. Thanks for all the advice.