Barred Rock pecking Red's wattles

[foundalodar]

I have a Barred Rock and a Rhode Island Red that I just introduce 2 Easter Eggers into their coop a week ago. I've been watching for signs of pecking but they all seemed to be fine with each other after I kept them quarantined a few months. I went out today to spread some scratch to find my barred rock pulling on my Red's wattles. She has drawn blood. I let them free range in an area 10'x30' and there is just the 4 of them. I have 2 different spots for food and water so no one goes without. Neither of the older ones are laying yet. They are both over 6 months old. My Red's wattles are large and very red so I know they like the color red. What is going on with this? What should I do? Would quarantining the Barred rock for a bit be a good idea?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

If they are sexually maturing and getting close to laying than they may be a bit hormonal and moody. It usually goes away after they have been laying for a while. I personally wouldn't separate unless the aggression gets worse. A bit of bickering is normal. If it gets worse a time out may be helpful.

 

[foundalodar]

My concern is for my Red. Her wattles are now all black from the pecking and pulling on the wattles. I have some say that Barred Rocks are sweet and some say she devils. She is by far the meanest.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Every bird has it's own personality. If it's excessive you can try fencing her separately for a bit to break the habit.