Newbie Questions

[Koolaid]

Hi everyone,

I got my RIR's (6 hen's and 1 rooster) 3 weeks ago. Breeder said they were 6 months old. We have them in a very spacious coop - watered and fed well. No eggs yet - a guy I know told me that many times when a chicken is moved to a new coop they sometimes go into a "molt" and stop laying for some time. Anyone heard of this? Also, is this constant 90-100 degree heat effecting them as well? They are almost 7 months now - eating good - appearing mostly normal (what's normal for a chicken?- LOL). Looks like I have 5 hens and 2 roosters though but that wouldn't matter would it?..

 

[gritsar]

Hens do need time to adjust after moving but three weeks seems like time enough. Hot weather can affect them too.
As can having 2 roos to 5 hens. Overmating can stress them out. Anything that stresses a hen out can affect laying.

 

[Koolaid]

Yesterday I noticed my rooster (or one of them - I'm pretty sure there are two) puffing up like crazy and chasing everyone around and giving them a peck. What's that all about?

 

[33yardbirds]

He wants to be top Dog and wants them to know it. That may be OK for now but if you have 2 roos it will get interesting. My old #1 is now #4

 

[Koolaid]

Ah, okay - thanks. One of the hens actually stands up to him some. they are too funny to watch.