- Oct 18, 2012
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We have a fairly unconventional set up - Steve and Susan, our Silkies, are indoor chickens - but have taken to family life since the arrival of Nugget three weeks ago. Sue is a very good mum, Steve slightly aloof but appropriately protective dad, cohabiting in their Palace happily whilst we waited to establish Nugget's gender. All was well until yesterday when Susie attacked Steve! At first I thought maybe Steve had attacked the chick or maybe stood on it accidentally but further observation shows that Sue's attacks are unprovoked. She's not joking either, she goes at him like she's a cockerel, poor Steve is left trying to make an undignified escape. I have now separated them although they are still in contact through the fence.
I even though I can't tell if Nugget is male or female I don't know when the chickens can tell?! Is this happening because Nugget is male and Sue is protecting him? Steve is looking most forlorn about the breakdown of his laity or family. Domestic bliss does not reign! Any thoughts please?
I even though I can't tell if Nugget is male or female I don't know when the chickens can tell?! Is this happening because Nugget is male and Sue is protecting him? Steve is looking most forlorn about the breakdown of his laity or family. Domestic bliss does not reign! Any thoughts please?