At what age is the pecking order pretty much figured out?

[MydearWatson]

My chicks are now about a week and a half old. The two largest ones have started to practice fly and then dive bomb a pile of sleeping chicks. Im assuming this is normal and they are trying to show their dominance? I of course hate to see it because I feel bad for my little ones getting stomped on by the huge Orp! At what point is the pecking order figured out? I hate watching it happen!

 

[colonel sander]

I am not sure but my 2 to 3 week olds are showing sighns. The funny thing is the smallest one of the bunch was the one to peck at everyone. Now the biggest one I think rules the brooder as when my son takes her out they all start chirping and running around looking for her. Any other gets taken out nothing happens. No one gets hurt out of the 4 but it is funny wathing them go at it.

 

[andrew6d9]

usually the orpingtons will get bullied instead of taking over. very interesting

 

[ragerkid2]

I'm glad u posted this!

 

[Buff-Island-Australorp]

I have (9) chickens.....5 Australorps, 3 RIR, and 1 Orp. Of all of them, my lone Orp and one of my RIR's pretty much rule. When I open the run door, the Orp is the first one out of the gate EVERY TIME. She acts like a loner, but everyone else follows her lead.
Tonight, I watched them file in to the coop for the night. The roost has a window where only a few can see out, and guess who sits in the viewing area??? Yes, my orp and my RIR.

By the way, the Orp's name is Sara, and the RIR is named Darla. (do those sound like "take charge" names???)

 

[BrynnRDH]

Quote:
Our buff orp is the head hen too! I thought it was because she's so big.

 

[gritsar]

Chicks start working on the pecking order from DAY ONE in the brooder together, but dive bombing is just simple playfulness. Puppies and kittens do it too.

 

[N&MSchroeder]

Like others have posted, my Orpington is right up at the top as well. Mine are over 10 weeks old and had pretty much figured out the pecking order (with an occasional squabble) when I upset them by giving two away to a friend because I had too many. (Gasp, I know you are shocked

) It appears that the pecking order is being worked out again.