Can I fix a mean pullet?

[dweder]

I have a 20 week Dominique pullet. She is not laying yet and has started biting me and challenging me like a rooster would.

Anything I can do to fix this? All 7 of my hens have been raised with lots of love and handling. It's not like I'm trying to tame a wild chicken.

Danielle

 

[aoxa]

Right before hens begin to lay, they become moody. Almost all of mine did anyway.

 

[dweder]

I agree they are moody before they start laying. Just haven't had one turn so mean. She breaks the skin when she bites me, stinker. I hope she mellows after she starts laying.

 

[kari_dawn]

sure she isn't a he?

I have heard that hatchery doms and barred rocks can be mean too...mine all turned sweet right before they started laying...

 

[7L Farm]

I've had mine bite me I just thump them back with my finger..

 

[sourland]

Place one hand on her back the other on her head/neck and force her to the ground. Hold her there until she stops struggling, repeat if necessary, if all else fails into the crock pot. It's all about dominance, and I'm betting that you are bigger and capable of subordinting her.

 

[BlazeJester]

Are you sure it's a hen? Can you post a picture?

I have some barred rocks that get cranky when you try to pull an egg from under them, and some skittish hens, but not mean pecking. I do have a couple of rooster chicks who are already very aggressive at 1 week old - not sure they'll even make it to the soup pot. There's an ad on craigslist for them already.

 

[fiddlebanshee]

I have a Dominique pullet of about 24 weeks that is jealous of attention given to others. She broke the skin of my hand while I was petting another. I forced her to the ground and held her there until she submitted. Had to do that a couple more times but she's better behaved now.

I hear you on the moodiness of pullets getting ready to lay. Now my Welsummers are getting really on my nerves, pecking at my calves and jumping up to peck at the edge of my jacket. Hope they start laying soon!

 

[Chicken Lover 1]

My favorite girl started doing that to. When she pecked me I would gently put my hand over her head to show I am boss.