bottom of the pecking order

[werecatrising]

Buffy, my poor BO hen, is getting picked on. They were all getting along well until they hit breeding/laying age. Now they all pick on her. She sits in the coop most of the day until somebody runs her out. Once she is out they will run up and peck her at random times. I feel sooo bad for her. Of course, it had to be my favorite who is at the bottom of the pecking order.

Is there anything that can be done to change this? Will it get better once the order gets established?

 

[flymamma]

I had a BO named Buffy too ! She died about a month ago

. I had to re-integrate one of my RSL's after a illness .. there was one chicken that picked at her the most . So I too the picker out for a week and then put her back with the flock . .. she was then at the bottom of the pecking order . Bo's do not do well in mixed age/ breed flocks ... they are simply too sweet natured

.

 

[matthewschickens]

If it is just one or two leading it then seperate them in a cage until everything settles down.
Matthew

 

[aimeeinwv]

Awe.. sad story. I have a baby girl who is also the smallest and picked on. She is so sweet!!! I have started picking her up and carrying her some, the others see her high above them and it seems to be helping establish a little respect. I also give her extra treats and things when the others aren't looking. Poor baby!!!

 

[sumpenny]

I'm having a similar problem. One of my hens is being singled out. When the others go into the yard she is always the last to get out. I usually find her laying under a bush somewhere all alone. It really hurts my heart. I will try picking her up more often. I hope that helps. She is my favorite.

 

[chookchick]

They get especially B****y when they are reaching laying age. Things should mellow out a bit when they are all laying, and are not all hormonal....Make sure she has feed and water that she can get to in the coop. Maybe a roost or two in the run will give her a place to get away. If they have some areas that they can't see, like a divider in the run, that can help. Unless they are drawing blood or starving her, I would let things work themselves out.