Hen is too aggressive with young chicks

[Marlo93]

I have a flock of five hens — three Barred Rocks and two Buff Orpingtons, all about 1.4 years old. Recently, I introduced two new older chicks (around 11–12 weeks old): one Rhode Island Red and one ISA Brown rooster.

I followed the slow introduction method by keeping the two younger birds in a separate enclosure within the main run for over a week. Before using the enclosure, one of the Barred Rocks had already shown aggression by pecking at both chicks.

Today, I removed the smaller enclosure to let them mingle more freely, but the same aggressive Barred Rock immediately began chasing the ISA rooster again — even during free-ranging time, she made a point to single him out. Interestingly, she completely ignores the new Rhode Island Red chick.

I’m honestly at a loss here. Why is she only targeting the ISA? Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Mrs. K]

Put her where you had the chicks. Order pin less peepers for her.

 

[Marlo93]

Put her where you had the chicks. Order pin less peepers for her.

Ok! I just ordered some off Amazon! Is there a certain length of time I should leave them on her?

 

[chooki]

May I ask where is the aggressive Barred Rock in the pecking order amongst the original 5 hens?

Sometimes it is hard for us humans to see, but body language or eye contact can convey meanings amongst birds. I think your Barred Rock knows that the Isa Brown is a 'he' and tries to show that she is higher on the dominance hierarchy. Younger pullets usually fall lower in the pecking order, so your Rhode Island Red pullet is not a threat to the Barred Rock.

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