Crazy Chick

[Fwchickens]

Meet Magpie, she is a sexed (80%) four week old Black Copper Maran. Magpie hasn’t met another chick she can’t pester. This behavior doesn’t seem overly aggressive which is why it took me a day or two to figure out who it was. She just looks over and plucks or pecks whom ever is close by. It doesn’t matter who it is. Two days ago she destroyed a Cochin by plucking tail feathers until it drew blood then the other 12 chicks descended. Today she pecked a bloody bald spot on the back of a huge Ameraucana rooster chick, plucked out the neck feathers of a houdan and left practically everyone with at least one mark which help narrow down the search. I have separated her but now what? Is there rehab for a crazy chicks?

 

[AltonaAcres]

That is a cockerel.

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

What a naughty girl! I would keep her separated for a few days in a see but don’t touch situation. Hopefully she will be out in her place when she is reintegrated.

 

[Fwchickens]

That is a cockerel.

What makes you say that, the comb, because I had the same thought? It was vent sexed by Meyer Hatchery so there’s that. In my favor it does have a long tail.

 

[AltonaAcres]

Huge, tall, red comb and wattles. my 7 week pullets still have combs smaller and paler than that one's

 

[BaaKaaawk]

If I had a chick that mean, I wouldn't have that chick anymore. Have not ever seen that aggressive of behavior in a whole lot of chicks, like literally hundreds. I know it sounds mean but I would absolutely put that chick down to avoid whatever evil gene it has from propagating.

 

[Fwchickens]

Good to know! I think it is more neurotic than straight out aggressive. I separated it and it has been throwing itself at the bars for five hours now. I have no plans to breed it. just wanted some pretty brown eggs. I am concerned it is a cockerel though, in which case no eggs and the Hatchery will owe me a refund.

 

[Fwchickens]

I just like to add this. I moved her inside. She incessantly chirps like a cricket.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Not 100% on it being a cockerel but there's a good chance with that prominent comb. I'd start thinking about what you want to do with it if it does turn out to be a boy, assuming you don't want males.

For now, I'd definitely keep it separate but in line of sight of the others, if possible.

 

[aart]

I am concerned it is a cockerel though, in which case no eggs and the Hatchery will owe me a refund.

Sorry I think it's cockerel too...
...and they won't owe you because sexing is usually only a 90% guarantee.
Check their policy.