Failed attempt at moving up in the Pecking Order...

[JoCin]

Looking for some sage advice...I have 6 hens. My number 5 in the pecking order attempted to make a move up in the order a little over a week ago. The 4 hens above her weren't having it. Since then she has been on the outs with them. Nothing hurtful, thank God!, but was wondering how long this will go on and things may return to somewhat normal. Thanks.

 

[Chicken_Obsesser]

I am not exactly sure when they will settle it, eventually they will calm down probably around three weeks at the most would be my guess. As long as they feel like she isn't a "threat" to them, they probably won't try to attack her.

 

[JoCin]

I am not exactly sure when they will settle it, eventually they will calm down probably around three weeks at the most would be my guess. As long as they feel like she isn't a "threat" to them, they probably won't try to attack her.

Thank you! You're right, they're not attacking her. They're just chasing her around and giving her a hard time. She's not fighting back. So thankfully it's not ugly. Just so sad to have disharmony in the pen for over a week now. Praying it ends soon.

 

[Chicken_Obsesser]

Yes, hopefully it does! It's always so sad to have to see your chicken struggling and not being able to really help them. I'm glad things aren't getting ugly in there.

 

[ChookaPete]

If you like, catch the head bully just as she targets the victim. Pick her up and hold her high above the flock in front of them, but below your own head. This tells the rest of the flock that she isn't as high up as they think (YOU are the big boss!).

If she jumps on the victim again and leads a gang-bashing, squirt her with the hose!