Hen-pecked pullet protection

[Gingerj]

We recently moved our 8-week pullets out to the coop where three older hens (a BR, BO, and a wyandotte) reside. I expected the transition to not be pretty, but I didn't realize how bad it would be. The BO and BR attacked the hind quarters of our Easter egger pullet until she was raw. I don't want to be too graphic, but it was pretty bad. The other pullets were mostly fine.

We brought the EE inside to heal in a dog crate. After a few days, we put her out with the rest of the flock again, but somehow she ended up in the run today with the big girls, hen-pecked and bloody. So back to the crate.

I've read here that some people have used duct tape saddles on their hen-pecked chickens. I'm wondering how successful this is? Would the hens just peck her elsewhere? She's my largest pullet, but very docile, and I'm afraid she's just at the bottom of the pecking order. I'd like to give her a chance to mature without being traumatized.

Any advice appreciated!

 

[Malibu99]

You should put her in a playpen type setup inside of the existing run. "See but don't touch" method seems to work pretty well.

ETA- if they're pecking her bum, a saddle won't do much good as a saddle only covers the back. It's primarily used for over-mated hens.

 

[Gingerj]

We have some wire fencing separating the pullets from the hens with a corner bent up so the pullets can get out, but the hens (in theory) can't get in. I'm not sure if the EE got out herself, or if the hens got in and chased her out, but we've bent the corner down so they're separated again.

The place they're pecking is actually from just above her tail feathers back under her wings.

 

[Malibu99]

Oh, Sorry I misread. I thought you meant her actual bum. Do you sew? You should be able to find a free pattern for a hen saddle. It's worth a shot. You can also crochet/knit one.

 

[Malibu99]

Here is a good tutorial on how to sew one. http://backtobasicliving.com/blog/make-a-chicken-saddle/

 

[Gingerj]

Fantastic! Thanks so much! I'll get started on one tomorrow.

 

[DoctorHouse]

You should cover the saddle in Pick-No-More lotion. It's a harmless salve that chickens detest. They hate the taste and will have to taste some every time they peck. This has worked for me when my hen was getting bullied.

 

[Sarevan]

I use polar fleece NO sewing! Just cut slits and put on hen. Can cut it down if too big but usually leave it as it protects more.

I can't sew fabric by hand or machine but if it is leather no problem.