Chicken arch enemies...

[Chicks Galore3]

I separated 2 chickens, Merri and Daffodil, from the rest of my flock because they were having troubles growing back their feathers because the other chickens were picking the pin feathers. Today, I let them out in the barn because they were getting cabin fever from not getting out to range in 2 weeks. Now, the coop is within the barn, as well as my segregation pen. Merri marched her way over the coop, where her used-to-be brooder mate, Pippyn, was. They started ATTACKING each other. I mean, hackles up, head down, jumping feet first at the other, growling. Thankfully there was wire between them so nobody got hurt. I knew they didn't get a long the best and would sometimes fight over nesting boxes, but I didn't know they hated each other. I am NOT looking forward to when I have to put Merri and Daffodil back with the rest...Or should I not? I do not want to be around when Merri and Pippyn can actually get to each other. Should I see how it goes when I put them together? Or should I either permanently have them separate or sell one?

 

[sourland]

Whether you keep one or both, the choice is up to you. It's all about the pecking order. Chickens have to fight to achieve/preserve their position in the social structure. It is normal chicken behavior to fight for position.

 

[Chicks Galore3]

I suppose...Is there a point where I should interfere or should I just let them at it?

 

[sbhkma]

I suppose...Is there a point where I should interfere or should I just let them at it?

I'm curious about this myself, as one of my hens has started picking on my smallest one to the point of Sophie having a bald spot and even a bit of a scab! She's really being bullied. I currently have the mean hen in solitary from the rest hoping it will help and at least Sophie can get some feathers back. I put blue kote on the back of her neck where the small wound is. Do you let them sort it out? I'm sorta thinking of keeping Annie separate for 2 or 3 weeks and then seeing if things are better. If not, Annie's gonna go.

 

[sourland]

I'm curious about this myself, as one of my hens has started picking on my smallest one to the point of Sophie having a bald spot and even a bit of a scab! She's really being bullied. I currently have the mean hen in solitary from the rest hoping it will help and at least Sophie can get some feathers back. I put blue kote on the back of her neck where the small wound is. Do you let them sort it out? I'm sorta thinking of keeping Annie separate for 2 or 3 weeks and then seeing if things are better. If not, Annie's gonna go.

If the separation does not work, you could always try Pinless Peeperss if she is a good layer.

 

[sbhkma]

She's a very reliable layer, but that's not my primary focus. I wonder about the pinless peepers.. do they hurt the hen wearing them? What's to keep it on when they rub their beak/face along the ground?