Challenging established pecking order

[Bante]

I have four Pekin Bantams. They had a long established pecking order and were getting along fine. Recently, number three in the pecking order has started to challenge number one, and has made for comb bleed and has even got her around the eye. This is difficult to watch and I have been trying to separate them as much as possible (they free range in our big back yard). I want it all to stop - any suggestions?

 

[sourland]

It won't stop until number one puts number three in her place or gives in and recognizes the upstart as dominant. Keeping them separate only drags out the process. The pecking order is indeed a 'process' with those on the bottom looking for an opportunity to improve their position. Chicken society is frequently unpleasant to watch.

 

[gryeyes]

Yup, sourland explains it perfectly. Pecking order is dynamic, not static. Any change of location, addition or removal of any flock member will certainly start it all over again, flock wide. The "decision" to attempt to raise rank can spring up any time.

 

[Bante]

Thanks sourland and gryeyes for your help. I do hope it will be all over soon!