Bullied Chicken

[OhioClucker]

Almost two weeks ago we brought home two new chickens. (Eater Eggers). My flock of four is horribly mean to them. I left them in view inside of a dog crate inside the coop so they could become friends. The lady at the hatchery said to sneak them in during the night and they'll hopefully wake up "friends" Not so much. They are beating up the new girls and now the one new one has turned against the other new one. Neither of the new ones are being allowed to eat or drink while the flock is all together and when it's just the two of them the one isn't being allowed to eat because the other is picking on it. I am going to place a second feeder and water container in the coop hoping that will help.
They are booth very afraid of people, they are improving but very slowly. They realize I am their source of food and water but run from everyone else. I am at loss for what to do to "encourage" them to get along. I am worried the one chicken is losing too much weight. I actually brought her inside the house to be allowed to eat today. Suggestions are greatly appreciated!

 

[chicmom]

So sorry to hear that, but it is the nature of the beast--I mean the chicken. Chickens are very territorial and do not welcome newbies politely. The reason the other EE is picking on the other new chicken is because they've established a pecking order. So your thin, picked on chicken is now at the bottom of the pecking order.

You're doing the right thing by putting out more food and water. Things should get better in time. But for now, just keep doing what you've been doing. Keep an eye on those new hens, and make sure they're getting enough food and water.