Bullying after getting along

[Aehrhart228]

What can I do to help the littlest one? I have 7 chickens they all used to get along until a couple of months ago. They started picking on the youngest/smallest one. They had a 4'x8' coop and switched them up to an 8'x8' coop, and the run is 16' with access to free range in the yard, so don't think it's a space situation.

 

[cavemanrich]

As long a there is no serious injury,, it is normal pecking order squabbles.
If it is just one or 2 hens that are doing the bullying,, you can install peppers on them.
You can also trim their upper beaks slightly,, so the top beak is not Weapon Grade.
If you choose the beak trimming, I can explain the process.
I trim the beak on one of my hens,, to keep her at bay. It regrows,, and I re-trim.
She still chases the lowest hens on the pecking order,, but no injuries encountered.


WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and

 

[cavemanrich]

the run is 16' with access to free range in the yard, so don't think it's a space situation.

Wanted to just add this. Since your run is adequate in size, do you have things inside to provide out of vision escape options for the pecked hen??
Boxes, crates, pots, and anything as such works well. (straw bales work well also) Make sure there is not a place where hen would be cornered, without escape route.

 

[Folly's place]

Also at least two feeder and waterers, out of sight of each other.
And if it's one aggressive hen, get her out of there and out of sight for a couple of weeks, and see if it helps. Or move her on to another flock.
Mary

 

[Aehrhart228]

As long a there is no serious injury,, it is normal pecking order squabbles.
If it is just one or 2 hens that are doing the bullying,, you can install peppers on them.
You can also trim their upper beaks slightly,, so the top beak is not Weapon Grade.
If you choose the beak trimming, I can explain the process.
I trim the beak on one of my hens,, to keep her at bay. It regrows,, and I re-trim.
She still chases the lowest hens on the pecking order,, but no injuries encountered.


WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and

What is the process of beak trimming?

 

[cavemanrich]

What is the process of beak trimming?

This video shows the safe painless way. I also s sand the beak lightly with an nail file.