My hens are crowing

[BGcoop]

I have a flock of 22. One 3 year old rooster, 13 pullets and 8 adult hens ages 1-3 years. Over the last few weeks the rooster has been fading- staying in the coop more, not always roosting on the top bar at night anymore, and now he is having difficulty walking. He is unfortunately destined to be culled humanely this week. Interestingly though I have noticed in the past couple weeks some of my adult hens have started crowing! They have never exhibited this in the past and I can only assume it is now happening due to the decline in heath of the rooster and they are now trying to figure out who will be taking his place in the pecking order. Chicken behavior is so interesting!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

That is pretty interesting behavior. Wonder if they are trying to ward off other roosters, or trying to call one on.

 

[BGcoop]

That is pretty interesting behavior. Wonder if they are trying to ward off other roosters, or trying to call one on.

Oooo interesting thought!