Do chickens miss each other?

[PNWhens]

In a small flock (maybe 4-8 hens), if one were to be lost to a predator or butchered, would the other birds be distressed, mourn, or possibly go cahoots? Thank you in advance for the info! New to chickens, and want to know what to expect if I encounter this and the best way to handle it.

 

[Kiwibird]

Mostly, missing other birds is not as obvious as readjustments in the pecking order. That's the thing to keep an eye on most of all when you have to remove some birds.

I am all for raising birds in stable groups as much as is practical, though. It just seems kinder.

 

[ValerieJ]

I think they do for a while. I lost a hen this summer that was well liked in the flock. When I found her, two of the other hens were just sitting there with her. They seemed a little pensive for the next few days, off by themselves, not running to get treats when I came out. But, a few days later they were back to their normal selves.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

I should say so. I had to separate my broody hen, Dazzle for a few days and saw a slight change in their behavior.

 

[SurferchickinSB]

In a small flock (maybe 4-8 hens), if one were to be lost to a predator or butchered, would the other birds be distressed, mourn, or possibly go cahoots? Thank you in advance for the info! New to chickens, and want to know what to expect if I encounter this and the best way to handle it.

One of my chickens died about a month ago and the other nine seem not to care at all.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

One of my chickens died about a month ago and the other nine seem not to care at all.

Maybe because you have a 'bigger' flock? I only have 6.

 

[SurferchickinSB]

Maybe because you have a 'bigger' flock? I only have 6.

Maybe, mine just seem kind of self-centered and only sort of care about them selves, LOL!

 

[cluckmecoop7]

Maybe, mine just seem kind of self-centered and only sort of care about them selves, LOL!

Ha! Mine like each other!

 

[sourland]

It depends. Some birds seem to form 'friend' bonds and spend their time with particular individuals or groups. Such birds do appear to miss a member that is removed.