Pecking Order

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RickyAndAlice

RickyAndAlice

In the Brooder
Sep 3, 2015
6
0
27
Somewhere Over The Rainbow..
How long is does the pecking in the pecking order last? I've had 2 Red hens for Two years and I got a 4 month old hen and a 4 month old rooster last week. The red hens have been chasing and pecking my new chickens the whole week. My new chickens aren't eating unless I'm with them, so they won't get hurt. Is there anything I can do to help my poor new chickens? They are terrified of the old red hens.
 
Hi :welcome

Glad you could join the flock! I have found the look but don't touch method very useful for introducing new chickens to exsisting flock members. Have them so they are next to each other but separated by wire so they can become acquainted but not harm each other. At 4 months your new ones are still young and will be prone to bullying from your older hens. Once your new ones are fully grown and have had a few weeks of getting to know the others you can add them to your hens. Be on guard though should you need to intervene if things get too rough or bloody. Extra feed and water stations are also advisable so the young ones can't be bullied out of food and water. Your new ones are only eating now as they feel safe from the older ones while your there, the older hens will be trying to starve the new birds out. At months it's vital your birds get good nutrition to become strong and healthy. Here is a lovely article on getting everyone together ~ https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/introducing-new-chickens-using-the-see-but-don-t-touch-method

Wishing you the very best of luck with them and I hope you have harmony in your flock soon.

Enjoy BYC and all the chicken chat :frow
 
Last edited:
Looks like Yorkshire coop answered your question already so I just wanted to say, "Welcome to the BYC flock! We are glad you joined us!"

welcome-byc.gif
 
The chasing could last a long time. As long as no one is getting hurt they should be fine. You can make things easier by having multiple feeders and waterers where they can spread out to use them. Good luck and welcome!
 
Pecking order/bullies sounds like a typical day in High school. I imagine every species has their version of it. Do read up on the "look but, no touch," procedure your young birds will thank you for it.
 

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