Chicken aggression

[AHavens]

I have 8 white leghorn hens who are about 7 weeks old. Everytime I let them out of their pen they run at each other, fluff feathers, peck, and also fly about in what seems to be a dominance thing. Some seem more aggressive then others, and I have 2 that just kind of sit back and not want any part of it. Is this normal? Are they trying to determine their pecking order? Any info would be appreciated

 

[sourland]

It is normal 'play fighting'. I think that sometimes it is more a thing of 'exuberance' rather than a pecking order situation.

 

[iwiw60]

X2

 

[azygous]

Absolutely agree! You are seeing nothing more than chicks released from confinement and who are over-joyed at being set free.

You'll recognize aggression and bullying when it begins to happen.

 

[AHavens]

Thank you all very much! This is my first time owning chickens and just wasn't sure

 

[Northie]

When we moved our chicks into their coop they were hilarious! Running in circles, flapping, flying, crashing, crazy happy chicken noises, and even a bit of fiesty squabbling between the young roos. It was pretty cute