LACavalier
In the Brooder
Hi everyone! I've been reading these forums for months, but now I have a problem I could really use some help with!!
I've had 1 drake and 3 hens (all Pekin) for about 6 months. Last week, two of the hens started laying eggs! It's winter, and these hens didn't lay eggs during the summer, so I was pretty surprised. What are they doing?!
After the laying started, one of the hens has been bullied by the rest of the gang - I can't tell if she is the one that started laying the eggs, or if she is the only one not laying. When I got home yesterday her poor head was all bloody, and I think the drake had bitten her head. I kept the drake out of the run (they free range during the day and get put up at night) until they all calmed down, and I cleaned her wound up.
When I let them out this morning, he chased after her again. She doesn't seem to be interested in eating or drinking, she's just following the rest of the crew around at a distance. From my perspective, it looks like she wants to be with them, but is afraid of them.
Is this just some hormonal drama that is going to pass once they stop laying? And how atypical is it for Pekin's to start laying in winter? Granted I live in south Louisiana, but it was in the 30's when they first started up. I just want them to get back to the harmonious life they had been living! I appreciate any advice yall are able to give this very inexperienced duck owner!
I've had 1 drake and 3 hens (all Pekin) for about 6 months. Last week, two of the hens started laying eggs! It's winter, and these hens didn't lay eggs during the summer, so I was pretty surprised. What are they doing?!
After the laying started, one of the hens has been bullied by the rest of the gang - I can't tell if she is the one that started laying the eggs, or if she is the only one not laying. When I got home yesterday her poor head was all bloody, and I think the drake had bitten her head. I kept the drake out of the run (they free range during the day and get put up at night) until they all calmed down, and I cleaned her wound up.
When I let them out this morning, he chased after her again. She doesn't seem to be interested in eating or drinking, she's just following the rest of the crew around at a distance. From my perspective, it looks like she wants to be with them, but is afraid of them.
Is this just some hormonal drama that is going to pass once they stop laying? And how atypical is it for Pekin's to start laying in winter? Granted I live in south Louisiana, but it was in the 30's when they first started up. I just want them to get back to the harmonious life they had been living! I appreciate any advice yall are able to give this very inexperienced duck owner!
I'm in VA where it's much colder and my girls are still laying - and they are only 9 mos old. As for the aggression, I'd just try to keep her separated for a bit to see if they calm down. I keep a 'time out' and 'hospital' pen accessible at all times - using it today as a matter of fact LOL. Good luck - keep us posted!
