Chest bumping?

[csummer8882]

I have 6 chicks (3 NHR, 2 GC and 1 RIR), all suppose to be girls, all 7 weeks old. When we let them out to free range, a few will chest bump while pecking the ground. What is that and why do they do it? Thank you!

 

[JodyJo]

sure they are girls? my roos do that...not one of the pullets do it....pics of your "girls"?

 

[serenityNH]

I have 10 three week old chicks ALL of them have started 'chest bumping' in the last few days. I hope it's not just a roo behavior or I'm in big trouble!!! I assume they are just establishing pecking order?

 

[cmom]

It's normal. All chicks do it. They are establishing their pecking order.

 

[JodyJo]

Quote:
Not ALL, none of mine have ever done it.....but good to know...only my roos have ever done this....

 

[csummer8882]

this one is one that normally does it, doesnt have much for tail feathers and was slow to grow.

this is "her" closest to the feeder

Thanks everyone for any and all input!

 

[jettgirl24]

At that age I think you would know if they were roos... The usually have much bigger combs and waddles and they are very red by that age. I recently hatched a little roo - pic below is of him at approx. the same age as yours. Note the big red comb and very developed waddles.

 

[stubbornhill]

Not that I'm helping you by answering your question, but just had to tell you. The second picture is super cute!

Hope your first experience with chickens is a wonderful one!

 

[csummer8882]

Thank you!

 

[Henicillin]

Everybody does the staredown-stretch up-chest bump in my house, and they're theoretically all pullets (I have my doubts about one of the Faverolles, though). It's fun to watch - like some sort of chicken martial art.