One chicken left who is low pecking order - get her a friend?

[ZoeNightshade]

We had a horrible experience where a housesitter forgot to close the coop and 3 out of 4 chickens were killed by a raccoon. We have one little chicken left (4 months old, not laying yet) and she is the one who was always beat up on by the other ones. Lowest in the pecking order. She seems very lonely and depressed. Often doesn't leave the coop area to go into the run or outside on her own. I think she is such a "follower" that she doesn't know where to go without a buddy. I saw online that local people are selling one leghorn. I worry that if I get two chickens from the same flock, they will beat up on her. Should I get just one chicken to increase the chances they will be friends? I thought about giving her to a friend with a big flock, but I fear the same problem, that she will get beat up on.

 

[ChickenAndMore]

Chicken like to be with others. They do horrible if they are by themselves. You really do need to try to find her some more friends. If you are worried about her being bullied then maybe you could get some chickens a little younger than her.

 

[Peeps61]

Yes, she definitely needs a friend. The one leghorn might be the best option, or the younger chicks. That way, she'll have companions and the younger chicks would not outrank her in the pecking order until they become older. Maybe never! You can probaly find some hatchery chicks that are two months old or so and get those.

 

[cackleberrycam]

I agree with both of you.


Welcome to Backyard Chickens, zoenightshade

 

[donrae]

I'd try the one bird. I agree, if you get two birds already bonded, they won't accept her as easily.