Non-Layers Picking on Layer?

[mamacubed]

We have a small flock of 5 hens, all the same age. We got them as bitty chicks, so they've always been together. Our leghorn just began laying on Sunday (and is already laying full size eggs, woohoo!), which is fantastic for us but doesn't seem to be going too hot for her.

The other birds wouldn't let her into the coop tonight. I found her little white tail feathers sticking out of the coop door when I went to lock them up for the night. Upon opening the big door, I saw they were all sitting on top of her. The white rock was particularly angry with me when I shoved her off. Once I got them all off, I was sure she was dead, as she didn't move until I physically picked her up and put her on the other side of the coop.

Is this normal? She was higher on the pecking order than the white rock until she began laying. Is it because she's laying? Most importantly, am I going to have to go out there every hour tonight tomake sure they don't smother the poor girl to death?

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[Judy]

She could have some kind of problem, or they could just be picking on her because they're chickens, or even what you suggested, because she's laying. Point of lay is a stressful time for them and in time they should settle down, when they all get used to it. If you can identify a ringleader bully, you can separate that girl for a week or so then return her, and she will be at the bottom of the pecking order.