One new chicken won't leave the coop

[AKoshio]

I got two hens Sunday both 6-7 months old. One has definitely taken the role of dominant and been aggressive towards the other although I didn't work too much about it since I know they need to establish a pecking order. But now the submissive one has taken refugee in the coop and refuses to come out. I worry she won't get food and water! I put small dishes of each in the coop just do she'd have some but I also don't want to encourage the behavior of hiding out in the coop. Any ideas or suggestions? Wait it out? Force the issue? Continue to feed her in the coop? These are the only two chickens, it's just the two.

 

[Jessica Thompson]

It takes time

 

[getaclue]

Yes, continue to feed, and water her in the coop. Like Jessica said, it takes time.

 

[getaclue]

BTW, Welcome to BYC. Glad you decided to join.

 

[AKoshio]

Thanks you guys! I just needed a little feedback and this really helps. I'll relax and let her take her time.

 

[Ridgerunner]

There are different potential reasons for that kind of behavior. One of my pet themes is that you probably don't have much room outside and she wants to stay away from the dominant one that might not be acting real nice to her at present. But it could be something different, something as simple as chickens don't like change.

I totally agree, just be patient. They will work it out in time. Forcing the issue just raises the possibility of an unnecessary fight.

 

[Sara Ranch]

Would you post pictures of the chicken coop and the chicken run?