I suspect it has more to do with Minnie being at the bottom of the pecking order When I had an injured chicken and needed to separate them, I always tried bringing in a low pecking order chicken, thinking they would be less likely to harass the injured/sick hen. NOPE! Every time I brought a low-in-the-order one in they were merciless to the injured hen (so, of course, out she went again.) I now only ever pick a mid-order hen for company/companionship for an injured girl when I do have to keep them separate. And, yes, there are times when you do...like after the crop surgery, etc. Especially with so many chickens, there will always be one that will harass a sick/weak/injured girl, so they have to go into either my hospital pen (built inside my main run), or in the house if they need amore sterile place for a few days. Regardless, I still put a hen in with then (n house or in hospital pen) because 'seeing', I don't think is the same as having someone to roost next to, etc.
@RoyalChick I hope your blood pressure is back down and that everyone is no worse for the wear, so to speak!
I'm so glad that Bella had Bernadette to come to her rescue! I suspect that Bernadette will soon be higher in the pecking order than Minnie...maybe even Dottie...before too long. She is smart, determined, and LEGGY. All of those will serve her well.
P.S. Isn't it amazing the bond they develop - so strong Bernadette would risk herself to help Bella!!
