Pecking order question

[Darcy0509]

Will hens ever challenge a rooster to be ahead in the pecking order? Or are roosters naturally the leaders?

 

[sourland]

It happens sometimes. Upon occasion a dominant hen will not give in to a rooster. This situation can escalate to the point that the hen is injured or killed.

 

[Darcy0509]

Thank you! I have two 4 week old chicks and I love oberserving their behavior. I don't know their sex yet but one seems a little more dominant but the other holds its ground pretty good. Nothing serious or violent but definite pecking order behaviour. Hoping I have 2 hens. I was just curious if the more dominant one were a male, would the other even stand up to it.

 

[aart]

Thank you! I have two 4 week old chicks and I love oberserving their behavior. I don't know their sex yet but one seems a little more dominant but the other holds its ground pretty good. Nothing serious or violent but definite pecking order behaviour. Hoping I have 2 hens. I was just curious if the more dominant one were a male, would the other even stand up to it.

Not unusual for young birds to spar.
At 4 weeks you may be able to tell male from female by comb/wattle size and color.
Post pics....clear pics in good white light, showing heads.

 

[sourland]

Both pullets and cockerels will mock fight/spar.

 

[Darcy0509]

Not unusual for young birds to spar.
At 4 weeks you may be able to tell male from female by comb/wattle size and color.
Post pics....clear pics in good white light, showing heads.

Thanks for your reply!
Here are recent pics. They are 4 weeks plus 2 days. Chick #1 with the black marking on its beak is a light brahma (and slightly bigger than the other and acts a little more dominant). Chick #2 we think is an easter egger. It is smaller but holds its own when they are squabbling.

 

[Hal682]

Both pullets and cockerels will mock fight/spar.

This is good to know because i was starting to think o had 4 roosters and no hens

 

[aart]

One on the right might be a male, due to 3 rows of peas and redder than the other.

 

[Darcy0509]

One on the right might be a male, due to 3 rows of peas and redder than the other.
View attachment 2647951

Well poo. Here's hoping it's not