bully problem or just give it time?

[FlyingNunFarm]

You may have a space issue. General ideal space is 4’x4’ per bird in the coop (not including nest boxes and storage) and 10’x10’ in the run.
You don’t give measurements for your coop but in my experience a prefab coop for 4-6 birds is really only big enough for 2.

Your original 4 birds were probably perfectly happy in their setup. And I’m not saying it’s a bad setup. What may have caused issue was the 2 new birds. If the 2 older birds were used to free ranging all day and a palatial coop they could very well be cranky.

I would definitely try removing the bully for a bit and trying to reset the pecking order. If that doesn’t work I’d try again and reintroduce with the pinless peepers. If a second attempt doesn’t fix the problem, unless you want to expand, rehoming may be the answer.

Good Luck!

I will say I took on a hen no one wanted because she was known to be bossy. I’ve not had a single problem with her. Sometimes it takes a change of scenery.

 

[sprede]

imnukensc,
Did you have to use the pliers to get those on?

 

[imnukensc]

Don't have to use the pliers, but it makes it easier to get them on. Also helps to have another pair of hands.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Photos of your coop/run?

IF space is not an issue, then let them work it out.

 

[drumstick diva]

very good advice given out here

 

[aart]

General ideal space is 4’x4’ per bird in the coop (not including nest boxes and storage) and 10’x10’ in the run.

Well, no.
4'x4' is 16 square feet.
The rule of thumb is 4sqft per bird....which is a minimum IMO.

You don’t give measurements for your coop but in my experience a prefab coop for 4-6 birds is really only big enough for 2.

Yes, indeedy!! ^^^

with a 5-6 chicken enclosed coop.

Dimensions and pics of your coop and run would really help here.

 

[FlyingNunFarm]

Well, no.
4'x4' is 16 square feet.
The rule of thumb is 4sqft per bird....which is a minimum IMO.

Yes, indeedy!! ^^^

Dimensions and pics of your coop and run would really help here.

I always do that wrong. LOL I knew what I meant.

 

[aart]

I always do that wrong. LOL I knew what I meant.

 

[sprede]

Well, no.
4'x4' is 16 square feet.
The rule of thumb is 4sqft per bird....which is a minimum IMO.

Yes, indeedy!! ^^^

Dimensions and pics of your coop and run would really help here.

I have a 10x10 dog kennel. Within that dog kennel is the coop which in itself can house up to 6 chickens. So I am sure there is room for 6 chickens according to what is recommended. But they spend a good 4 hours out of the kennel free ranging.

So new developments.
#1 - Barred has chilled out and things are working themselves out but one of the new birds is feeling a little cramped I would assume as she continues to stay out in the little dog kennel we set up outside. I have to get her out and put her in the big coop (so she doesn't freeze). I plan on making another small coop just for her and a friend if she pleases.

Development #2 - The young ladies are now starting to lay for the first time, bout time . They are all supposed to lay large eggs but these first few have come out small. Is that normal? Also, my Rhode Island Red who has been so sweet is now starting to peck at our legs as were are in the kennel. Is that because she is being protective of her eggs?

 

[sprede]

You may have a space issue. General ideal space is 4’x4’ per bird in the coop (not including nest boxes and storage) and 10’x10’ in the run.
You don’t give measurements for your coop but in my experience a prefab coop for 4-6 birds is really only big enough for 2.

Your original 4 birds were probably perfectly happy in their setup. And I’m not saying it’s a bad setup. What may have caused issue was the 2 new birds. If the 2 older birds were used to free ranging all day and a palatial coop they could very well be cranky.

I would definitely try removing the bully for a bit and trying to reset the pecking order. If that doesn’t work I’d try again and reintroduce with the pinless peepers. If a second attempt doesn’t fix the problem, unless you want to expand, rehoming may be the answer.

Good Luck!

I will say I took on a hen no one wanted because she was known to be bossy. I’ve not had a single problem with her. Sometimes it takes a change of scenery.

The coop itself is 36 sq.ft. Barred is way better now. Occasionally she will peck but that doesn't last long. Once sun goes down they all go into coop minus one so gonna make a small one that will fit one or maybe two. Will see how things go with this setup. If things get out of hand will just have to re-home two of them so things are more roomy till we get our permanent home. I would then setup something way bigger for them.