Old/new birds fighting

[Nickydec]

Help! I have a small backyard coop, I was down to 2 layers (red sexlinks) they are about a year and a half. I introduced 2 ready to lay hens (same breed) last night to the coop. All day they have been fighting. The older hens are attacking the younger ones (even though they are the same size and breed). I could separate them but I really didn't want to have to build a second coop for 2 birds. Any recommendations/suggestions? I hate seeing this and the two new hens are now hiding in the coop and won't come out.

 

[bobbi-j]

This is very common when introducing new birds to the flock. They are establishing the pecking order. The old birds see the new ones as intruders. There are a few things you can do to help with integration. Make sure everyone has enough space. (How big are your coop and run?) Put out two or more water and feeding stations. Put some hiding places into the run (pallets leaning on the side of the run, open at both ends so a bird can't get trapped), put in more roosts. Add branches or boards to your run for a multi-level run. It may look cluttered, but it can help keep your chickens busy. Chickens don't like change, and they don't like strangers, but give them time and they'll work things out. It can take days, sometimes weeks.

 

[Nickydec]

Thanks bobbi-j that is some great advice, I am going to go out and add a second water and food as well as some hiding places. Fingers crossed it will only take a few days...not weeks! lol