Bantam Challenges Cat?

[WallyBirdie]

My cat has been good about leaving my chickens alone. But today, my little bantam fanned out her tail (like a turkey!) and chased my cat halfway across the yard!

Do chickens do this often? The tail-fanning?

 

[N F C]

Funny!

My cats have never been around my chickens so we'll see what others say.

 

[chrissynemetz]

In the past I've had hens fluff up and fan their tails like that. Normally it would be a mama hen, and she would usually be chasing the cat.

 

[WallyBirdie]

In the past I've had hens fluff up and fan their tails like that. Normally it would be a mama hen, and she would usually be chasing the cat.

Thank you for sharing! Is it to make themself look bigger before they chase off an opponent?

 

[BY Bob]

Thank you for sharing! Is it to make themself look bigger before they chase off an opponent?

Yes, you will also see it in pecking order disputes some times. I'm watching 2 of mine do it right now.

 

[chrissynemetz]

Yeah I believe so. It works too, it makes them look big and mean!!
At least my cats think it does.

 

[Chris-n-Kate]

I wish my chickens would chase off the feral cats like that. Instead they hide and let the cats eat all the chickens feed.

 

[drumstick diva]

Never saw a chicken do that - way cool!

 

[WallyBirdie]

I wish my chickens would chase off the feral cats like that. Instead they hide and let the cats eat all the chickens feed.

Sorry for your chickens there. Feral cats can be beastly!
My chickens chase my cats (the cats go inside and out) and try to eat all the catfood if I feed the cats outside. It is funny though, to see this little bantam run after a full grown cat!

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Are there feral cats in this chicken's life? Maybe she has just declared war on all cats! She certainly appears formidable!