Is my BCM antisocial because of me?

[Amandalee]

I have a 7 week old BCM which was part of a hatch that also had two roosters. Just over a week ago I found an awesome home for the roos to go to, so I let them leave. My BCM was in her brooder for a week alone, and I felt bad so I came and visited her daily, brought her out for cuddles (she purrs!).

So 3 days ago I managed to find a pair brought up together that were her age. One is a Barred Rock, The other a Rhode Isl Red. They have not fought since joinging, but the BCM is constantly alone and when I enter the run, she comes outside and jumps on me for cuddles and pats.

Is my attention towards her detrimental to her getting along with the pack? Should I stop and do something differently?

Thanks, Amanda

 

[chooks4life]

I don't think you're doing anything wrong, time will probably meld them into a flock if they don't have any severe bust-ups.

Some poultry are sexually bonded to humans and can be confused about what species they are but most poultry don't have any problem identifying humans from other poultry, and they will set up their own social organization between themselves, humans, and other birds.

I think she'll probably be fine. Birds of a feather/clutch/breed tend to bond together and they can become loners when isolated from their initial family group but that's part of life. Her being friendly with you shouldn't be a problem now or in future, I'd expect.

Best wishes and

 

[Amandalee]

Thanks! I am so bonded with her it would honestly make me sad to stop. I am glad I am not the cause.

Thanks for the welcome too! Ive been lurking since last summer!

 

[chooks4life]

Lurking is good, teaches you a lot of things better learned before jumping in... If one is so patient... lol.

 

[donrae]

Your attention to the bcm doesn't have anything to do with how the others treat her. They simply see her as the outsider and likely will for a long time. Doesn't matter if you snuggle her or ignore her.

If you want to try to have them be more of a cohesive flock, try taking out one of the new birds for a week or so. Let the bcm and one of the new girls get to be buds, then put the third bird back in.

 

[chickengeorgeto]

donray is right. Besides there is a phenomenon in the poultry world called imprinting at work here. At birth chickens imprint on the first large thing they see that moves. This is how baby chicks are able to follow and keep up with their mother. A 7 week old chick is still acting on its initial imprinting. In a few more weeks this phase will pass. I have even heard tails of newborn chicks imprinting on a riding lawn mower.