Do chickens remember each other?

[Cherrypie]

I'm adding a RIR to my pair of Buff Orps. The RIR was raised with them but has been separated from them for three weeks. Will the buffs remember the RIR, from scent or something? I'm thinking that isn't likely but I'm curious if it will make the addition to the group easier.

 

[Wynette]

What a good question, one that I've wondered about before. In the many times I've done this, I haven't noticed any indication of rememberance. I'll be curious to see if anyone else has!

 

[miss_jayne]

they very well may. chickens and other birds can identify EVERY bird in a flock of hundreds. they can see ultraviolet colors and see subtle differences in each other and know each bird.

you will want to watch very carefully because when you reintroduce the birds, they will be the low birds on the peck order and may have to 'earn' the right to be around again. watch that they don't get hurt.

 

[patandchickens]

That's a really good question. From my limited experiences I'd say yes. Not in a "running in slow motion across backlit meadow to swoon in each others' arms" sort of way, and not necessarily in a "reintroduced chicken walks right back into the same place in the pecking order that she had when she left", but I've gotten the impression with mine that they remember each other, even after a couple months. Can't prove it but it certainly seems possible given their good recognition capacities and ability to remember *other* things.

Pat

 

[poultryone]

In my experience, it depends on how long they were separated. I've taken a bird out for a month and reintroduced her with no problem, the other birds took her back with nary a look. Other times, I've taken out a chicken and had her have to go through the whole pecking order establishment a second time when she was introduced. It varies on the birds, so if you are reintroducing her without the usual methods then keep an eye to make sure she isn't being picked on by the rest of the coop.

 

[hangin'witthepeeps]

I just had a sickly hen and had her out for five days. When I put her back with the flock she went to the corner and layed down and one hen when over and stood over her pecking at her beak and another went over and layed her head and neck across her back. I thought it was cute until she got up and peck both of them for being nice.

 

[chickbea]

Every time I have had to isolate a bird the flock has accepted them back with no problem. They certainly seem to recognize each other.