Mean Hen

[PrincessChicky]

I know it isn't uncommon for hens to peck and go after each other, but I have a hen that is a jerk to me!

If I pick her up, she poops on me...or tries to. Then when I put her down, she bows up and challenges me and ends up pecking my legs or foot. If I walk by her in the yard and need to get by her, she'll bow up and go after me.

I was so excited to have a really friendly hand raised chick. I've had this little girl, a Buff Orp. since her bday in March and I thought she would end up being the sweetest one, but she's just plain evil. The other hens mess with her so I thought initially it was just a case of 'poop rolling down hill', you know, her picking on me because everyone else picks on her. Also, I don't even think she's laying yet so then she's a brat on top of being a useless brat. :-/

What's the deal and what do I do with her? I'm afraid it is only a matter of time before she starts going after the kids.

 

[Judy]

It's not unusual for them to not like being handled. Usually it's only the males, the cockerels, who "go after" people. It would be odd if she attacked your kids, as long as they don't chase her down or try to handle her. Or -- maybe she is a he?