Hens that Attack!

[bragabit]

We are pretty new to this still, so we found out the hard way that a Hen will attack. We have heard from friends and this site to be careful with a rooster but I never new to watch for a hen. We just aquired a broody hen with chicks. I went out to the pasture and as she walked by with her trail of chicks I picked up the last chick. That mama hen turned around so fast and was in my face. She didn't hurt me but I was worried about her claws.

Is that normal for a momma hen? Will she mellow out after the chicks grow/leave?

 

[columbiacritter]

Some hens are very, very protective of their chicks. If you are free ranging them that's what you want or you lose all your chicks to predators.

Since this hen is fairly new to you she doens't know or trust you so she will be even more protective.

 

[Uppity Peon]

Good momma hen! I hope she learns to trust you eventually.