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Hen pecked! to death??

Discussion in 'Managing Your Flock' started by Jock, Aug 22, 2014.

Most Liked Posts
  1. Aug 22, 2014 #1
    Jock

    Jock New Egg

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    Apr 3, 2014
    Tanzania
    My flock are coming along nicely, with the first batch laying just over 120 eggs a day,
    and my second batch growing well, despite losing several to illness despite a constant feeding of antibiotics and vitamins.

    Recently they've been pecking at hens who have just laid their daily egg, until sometimes they kill the poor chicken.

    How can I stop this happening?
    [​IMG]
     
  3. Aug 22, 2014 #2
    rc4u

    rc4u Chillin' With My Peeps

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    Feb 3, 2014
    looks like they need maybe some forage area..something for them to do is very important..if its just dirt they have nothiing to do...
     
  5. Aug 24, 2014 #3
    Kiaton

    Kiaton Out Of The Brooder

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    May 2, 2014
    New Mexico, USA
    They are probably frustrated from lack of stimulation in the run. Do they eat any treats other than layer mash? Are they allowed outside of the run? If so, they may just be having pecking order issues, but if not, it's more than likely due to boredom and I'd recommend letting them roam for a few hours daily. If you can't, you could give them weeds/scraps/treats and toys, and more hiding places for those being bullied to escape.
     
  7. Aug 24, 2014 #4
    centrarchid

    centrarchid Chicken Obsessed

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    Sep 19, 2009
    Holts Summit, Missouri
    Increase protein level of diet. Mix in a little chick grower and make available whatever calcium source you have available. Based on image you are pushing them pretty hard and when in large groups sub-optimal diets can easily lead to unpleasant problems like cannibalism very quickly.
     

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