Newbie with bullying problems

[Lauren1]

I have recently bought 6 hens, however one hen (light Sussex) is severely bullying another (bluebelle) to the point that the bluebelle will not leave the coop and has become withdrawn from the flock and has loss of feather. The coop size is ok but I am having a much larger coop/run made to ensure this isn't the problem. In the meantime should I remove the bully from the situation? Any advise would be much appreciated.

 

[hnichols]

Have they lived all together before you got them? if not you may of not introduced them correctly. If i was you i would icolate the light sussex for a few days then put her back in. The pecking should of changed by then. And if the bullying was still happening i would rehome her.

 

[N F C]

Isolating the bully will knock her down on the pecking order. Keep a close eye on them when you re-introduce her for further behavior issues. If your Bluebell has any open wounds, treat them and dab some Blu-Kote on to cover the wounds. Chickens naturally go for picking on sore spots. You may also want to add another feeder and waterer (if you haven't already) to make sure everyone, even the lowest pecking order birds, have a chance to eat and drink.

There's an interesting article in the Learning Center on bullying behavior and some ways to discourage it:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/bullying-behavior-in-chickens

Good luck to you, hope all settles down soon.

 

[trailrider330]

Welcome to the BYC flock! We are glad you joined us!

I hope you are able to have your hens get along soon.

 

[Lauren1]

Thank you everyone! I will isolate the bully for a few days and let you know how it goes

 

[Hholly]

I had a similar situation. I tried penning up the bully. But ended up having to rehome the bird. Some bullies are just too determined. I hope yours ends up better then mine did.

 

[N F C]

I had a similar situation. I tried penning up the bully. But ended up having to rehome the bird. Some bullies are just too determined. I hope yours ends up better then mine did.

You're right, that does happen sometimes, I've experienced that with one bird. That gal was always after someone; we re-homed her and there is peace in the flock which is wonderful for them and me.

Isolating them and then re-introducing them is a good first step. I tend to think of re-homing or culling as a last ditch solution.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

You could also try pinless peepers on the bully. Put name in search box to see what they are. They prevent the bird from seeing straight ahead so she will miss her mark.

I hope one way or another, peace is restored to the flock.

 

[Lauren1]

I have separated the bully, when should I put her back with the others and what would be best time (e.g. Morning/night) to do it? Fingers crossed this works! There has been peace and harmony in the coop since she departed!