Flock picking on Silkie

[Leanna Shelby]

Hello! I have twelve birds all brooded together same age. (4mo)Recently the rooster and hens of different breeds have been picking on one of the silkies (I have two). The rooster in particular a larger bird grabs his crest when he tries to go for food or goes near the rest of the flock. This is odd to me because the other silkie does not experience the same bullying- however I have not yet sexed them (it’s hard when they are all fluff) but I’m thinking the silkie getting pick on May be a roo? (His stance is more upright and he is larger than the other) Also I did just cull a 13th bird out of the flock two weeks ago(another roo). MayBe they are still working it out?

 

[MrFluffyandGirls]

Hello! I have twelve birds all brooded together same age. (4mo)Recently the rooster and hens of different breeds have been picking on one of the silkies (I have two). The rooster in particular a larger bird grabs his crest when he tries to go for food or goes near the rest of the flock. This is odd to me because the other silkie does not experience the same bullying- however I have not yet sexed them (it’s hard when they are all fluff) but I’m thinking the silkie getting pick on May be a roo? (His stance is more upright and he is larger than the other) Also I did just cull a 13th bird out of the flock two weeks ago(another roo). MayBe they are still working it out?

Sadly there is always someone at the bottom of the pecking order. Try two separate feeding and watering stations so it does not have to compete so hard to eat. Make sure it has obstacles and perches and hideouts so it can get away from it's tormentors.

 

[Leanna Shelby]

Thank You! I will create a separate “fluffy” station when I get home. Do you think if I tied up its crest feathers or trimmed them maybe it would help? It could at least see to get away or avoid?