Grown Rooster Chasing Chick

[FluffyButtNut]

I am raising 30 chicks ranging in ages 7 weeks - 10 weeks, and am in the ‘look but don’t touch’ phase of integration with my adult flock of 6 hens and 1 rooster (pic of chick enclosure attached). It has been 2 weeks since this phase began and I intend to go another 2-3 weeks at least. Both flocks, adults and chicks, are mixed flocks.

Today one of my chicks (pullet) flew out of the penned area when I was out with the adults and the rooster began chasing her around, looking pretty determined to catch her. She fled from him and I was able to get her penned back up safely.

I’m concerned with this behavior from my adult rooster and would appreciate any insight/feedback on this behavior and any advice on how to address it. Thanks!

 

[aart]

The shear number of chicks may overwhelm the older birds.
But you know the recipe lots of space hiding place and multiple feed/water stations.
If he turns out to be a 'killer' be ready to isolate him.

 

[Mrs. K]

You need one way gates. This will let the chicks explore, and retreat as needed. They learn proper chicken society, and when they get on their elders last nerve, well they can retreat to a safety zone.

I have done this for years, and mine are in the flock in a week. You may be interfering too much. However, you are there, know what you saw.

Mrs K

 

[aart]

You need one way gates.

7-10 weeks are probably too big for these....small openings that only the chicks can get thru.

 

[FluffyButtNut]

Thank you so much for weighing in. I am so new to this, it’s the first time I’ve raised chicks and only had my adult birds since Jan 2023. I am making a tunnel of sorts out of a wooden box with chick-sized openings so the chicks can come out of their enclosure as desired, and explore but return to safely when needed.

 

[Ridgerunner]

I’m concerned with this behavior from my adult rooster and would appreciate any insight/feedback on this behavior and any advice on how to address it.

I've never had that type of problem with a mature rooster chasing a young chick, but I introduce the chicks younger. Other people say they have though and I believe them. I have seen a mature rooster and a cockerel have issues, but that's usually when the cockerels are older. And besides, yours was a pullet. Each and every situation is different and each bird has its individual personality. You just can't tell what will happen with living animals and their behavior.

Personally I'd continue what you are doing. You can try that safe haven concept, a safe place only the chicks can get to. It can be effective. When you do let them mix do the entire brood of chicks and do it where they have a lot of room and see what happens. Good luck!

 

[FluffyButtNut]

Well, I have a fantastic update to share - this afternoon I allowed the chicks the opportunity and access to come out and free range with the adult flock - and all went great!! I used the box as a tunnel/safe escape for my chicks and my rooster did excellent - he did not chase at all, he only guarded and herded. Some of my adult hens were a bit cranky but all in all everything went great. I am over the moon thrilled. So, I suspect the rooster chasing was because a chick escaped and was not where she should have been. We are one step closer to permanent flock integration Thanks again everyone!

 

[aart]

I suspect the rooster chasing was because a chick escaped and was not where she should have been.

Exactly!