One Hen Attacking Others

[Chicken12367]

Hi, I just got some 6-7 month old female orpingtons. One of the orpingtons is slightly bigger than the other two and always chases them around pecking at them. I have separated her for a few days. Any other information or help would be much appreciated many thanks.

 

[N F C]

You might want to try pinless peepers if separating her doesn't work. You can get them on Amazon or places like Murray McMurray.

There are a lot of posts on bullying, a search should turn up a lot of ideas.

 

[Squeak61]

Pecking in a brand new flock is totally normal, they are establishing a pecking order. That just means that they’re deciding who’s “top dog” The best thing you can do is put them all back together and do not interfere unless one is injured or bleeding. I hated watching one get picked on, but it’s just how chickens do their thing. If it continues for more than a week or two, separate her. And NFC ‘s idea with the pinless peepers is a great idea if things don’t get resolved soon. Good luck!

 

[Pork Pie]

Whilst being unsure on whether you let your birds free range or not, I'd suggest adding feeding stations as a lot of aggression is food-based. Including physical barriers between feeding stations (and elsewhere, for that matter) can also help to ease tensions. There are many issues that can trigger aggression, but space can also be an issue.