Bullying after losing a member of the flock

[Ccort]

One of my hens passed away recently and her closest friend did a lot of calling out for her and was clearly anxious. She did not get to see the body, which I believe was a big mistake on my part. Then, another of my hens has been sicka and had crop surgery so is away from the flock. Between both of these events, it has really messed up the flock dynamics. My girl who was grieving her best friend is now acting out/bullying another member of the flock, causing the other (a brahma) a lot of stress. Seeing how the brahma is overcoming illness as well, this is the last thing she needs.

I initially had the brahma separated as she was still getting well but feel she can be outside now but it's clear she and the other cannot be in a container run or my brahma is being chased and pecked at. When free ranging, all is well. I have now removed the hen who is bullying and brought her inside, thinking a couple of days away may re-adjust things.

Is this the best course of action? Bring the one in who is doing the bullying?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Or penning her in the coop. If only one is a problem than it's easier to remove the one.

 

[Ccort]

Or penning her in the coop. If only one is a problem than it's easier to remove the one.

I'm thinking of keep her separate during the times when they would be together in the enclosed run but still have them all out together range? I wonder if that would help reset things after a couple of days?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I'm thinking of keep her separate during the times when they would be together in the enclosed run but still have them all out together range? I wonder if that would help reset things after a couple of days?

I would try that first. If she continues to make trouble you can always try pinless peepers for a few months too if you don't want to keep her separated. I'm guessing she's taking the leader position and trying to tell them all she's in charge now.