Chicken misbehaving

[Asadchoudhry165]

So here is the story I have a cook who is around 18 weeks she layed her first egg last week which was exciting to see but she’s been misbehaving. We’ve been feeding my chickens a lot so everyone can have their own food. My one cook in particular the silver wyandotte has been making her own territorial space and resting space. Whenever any chicken that’s not the other silver wyandotte goes into that space she chases them and bites them or pecks at them. I’m trying to figure out what to do and stop this behavior. I’m guessing she’s the leader of the flock but they shouldn’t be acting out like this.

 

[sourland]

It's all about the hormones.

 

[Asadchoudhry165]

Does this go away over time or is it a temporary behavioral thing?

 

[21hens-incharge]

Is food available at all hours?
I am a bit confused by this part...
We’ve been feeding my chickens a lot so everyone can have their own food.

It sounds like food isn't constantly available. If that's the case it sounds like she is being food defensive.

 

[Asadchoudhry165]

Yes layer feed is available inside the coop. She usually acts like this when we put out treats or kale.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Yes layer feed is available inside the coop. She usually acts like this when we put out treats or kale.

I see.
She may be claiming the top spot in the pecking order. Can you add clutter to the run so the others can eat treats without being in her sight line?

 

[aart]

add clutter to the run so the others can eat treats without being in her sight line

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/a-cluttered-run.1323792/