how to protect runt

[inthesilo]

I have 6 RIR pullets, the runt gets picked on by the larger hens -- OK to be expected. But lately one (or more) has a habit of jumping on the runt's back and pulling on the comb, and her back feathers are getting damaged from the footholds.

They have a decent sized coop (100sf), a decent run (300sf) that they have daily access 9AM-5PM, plenty food water, multiple options. Getting 5+ perfect eggs/day.

Any advice on how to prevent the situation from getting worse? It is not being pecked, just the damage from the footholds on the back.

 

[Agnella]

I have a runt too that gets picked on. She was attacked by something (I'm thinking possum) last year and due to some time away from the flock to heal, she moved down to the bottom of the pecking order.

I make sure she has plenty of spots to jump up and stay away from the others (several roosts in the run to use). I also make sure there are multiple waterers and feeders so she doesn't get pushed away from them every time.

Good luck