How common is it for a new Mama to peck stepchicks that she has hatched on their very first day? I think she was just trying to get them back under her but overreacted out of anxiety and pecked way too hard. I checked in on Esther and brood and one of the chicks has a pretty bad pecked place on one side of her head. She seems to be okay, though. The pecking has stopped. Do you think I should put her (this 2d pecked chick) in with Pectin or just leave be? I haven't treated this second chick's wound with Neosporin or Blue-Kote. Do you think I should? She has turned her head so Mama can't see the pecked place. Thanks for the Blue-Kote/Gentian Violet info, everyone.
It's not something I've come across, but if there's blood on the chick's head you need to do something about it or the smell of blood may attract more pecking, even if it's dry by now. I suggest you smear some petroleum jelly or some antibiotic cream on the wounds. That should be enough to stop further pecking and you can safely leave the chick with the hen. If there's no blood, I wouldn't worry about it. From what you've said, things seem to have settled down now anyway. http://muckycluckers.blogspot.com/
my chicken mum has threeand when i first put them under her she was not sure what to do and did the odd peck to a certainlittle misschief that never stayed still . they came to understand each other eventually just watch them and make sure they settle i hope all works out good for you and your chickies
