Pecking order - is this normal?

[SusanPC]

As a newbie, I am looking for reassurance. My pullets are almost 19 weeks. My Buff Orpington - Daisy seems to be the top gal with another assertive girl right behind her (barred Plymouth Rock). At the bottom of the 4 girls are my Easter Egger and Silver Laced Wyandotte - Duchess. Poor Duchess gets pecked at by Daisy if she is near when eating or getting treats or seemingly if Daisy just wants to push her around. It's sad to see since they have always been the closest since the first day. I know it is normal behavior, but just want to be sure that Daisy's behavior is normal as long as Duchess doesn't get hurt. No blood has been drawn and no injuries.

 

[sourland]

Think 'cruel girls' in high school - frequently that's how the chicken social order operates. Make sure that the bullied hen is getting enough to eat and drink - sometimes multiple feeding and watering stations are needed.

 

[aart]

There will almost always be pecking when the lower girls wander near the higher girls....it's just the way they roll.

Unless there is excessive chasing or serious blood drawn, just let them be chickens.

....and be glad you're not in high school (or a chicken) anymore.....LOL!

 

[SusanPC]

Thanks for the insight. I suppose I will need to get used to pecking order behavior and try not to feel too sorry for the "lower" hens.

 

[RonP]

Yes, it's a chicken thing...