Is occassional pecking at each other "normal"?

[BethieofVA]

I have noticed one of my RIR peeking the hind end of my other RIR, but not the two BSL's. Is this normal? Is does not seem vicious and I do not see any damage. Do they preen each other? I do use a red brooder lamp, ample food and water, not to mention plenty of space for only four chicks. They are always snuggling up to each other to sleep. Oh, the RIR gets irk and flies back at the other one. They are all almost two weeks old.

Thanks!

 

[underground chickenman]

If you mean "pecking," yes they do that. It can become a problem if it gets out of hand. Some pecking is normal, but you can also get a real habitual pecker that may have to be rehomed or removed from the flock for a while to disrupt the pecking order. At this age, I wouldn't worry about it, except to be sure that they are not too hot and not overcrowded, which are the two main causes of excessive pecking.

As for the one pecking only one other, make sure the one being pecked doesn't have something wrong that is being pecked at, such as pasty butt or something stuck to its bottom, or an injury to that area that is attracting attention. Once a wound gets started, the others will peck at it relentlessly.

UGCM

 

[BethieofVA]

Thank you for your reply! It looks more like playing or "picking" on each other. I can not see anything obviously wrong.

 

[ranchhand]

I agree, some pecking is just the chicks establishing the pecking order.
If any blood shows up you will need to separate them and treat.


Uhm..... just a suggestion.... you might want to edit the thread title!

 

[BethieofVA]

LOL!!! I meant pecking!

 

[ranchhand]

Quote:
I figured as much, but it was hilarious!