pecking order question

[calvincoop]

I was just wondering if there is anything that I could do to help a hen to become higher on the pecking order. is that even possible?

 

[Kevin565]

You could separate the higher up hens from the flock then reintroduce them later which makes them start at the bottom of the totem pole. However, if they previously at the top it's just a matter of time before they regain their spot

 

[RedDrgn]

Not really. You can remove the top hen(s) from the flock for about a week, which will take them out of the established order and cause upheaval. When you reintroduce them, they'll start at the bottom of the pecking order, but that doesn't mean that they'll stay there. They may well work their way right back to the top. You don't know until you try, though.

 

[calvincoop]

Thanks. I was a little bit worried for my black star Zoey. her best friend Emma just recently passed away (they were raised together) Zoey always gets picked on, but Emma was high up on the pecking order because she was my rooster Floyd's #1 girl. Emma and Zoey were always together and Zoey seemed to be picked on less when she was with Emma. when Emma passed away I was really worried about Zoey, I can't stand to see her being bullied. the first few weeks were really tough, but she's starting to come around and the other hens seem to be accepting her as part of the group. I just love that chicken! She's such a sweetheart!