Pecking Order....

[dbrown64]

I have 8 hens and 7 of the 8 pick on a smaller one. She isn’t missing feathers but I have witnessed one of them attack the smaller one at the neck. Should I put the small one in a coop by herself for protection?

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. Is there enough space that she can get away from the bullies ? Are there multiple feeders and waterers so that she gets to eat and drink ? If blood is not being drawn, she can get away from the bullies, and is able to eat - I would leave her with the flock. Given the circumstances if you remove her it will be nearly impossible to reintroduce her to the flock.

 

[Folly's place]

Welcome! I agree with sourland. If you watch them, there might be an instigator, and that's the bird to isolate away from view of the flock, for a week or two. She will fall down the pecking order when she returns. If things are wonderful without her, move her on!
Having space, places to be out of sight, and a very good diet, all matter here too.
What breeds do you have? Some are not as nice as others...
Mary

 

[aart]

Welcome to BYC...sorry you are having troubles.
How old are these birds?
How big is your coop and run in feet by feet?
Dimensions and pics would be most helpful in offering you valid suggestions.

 

[Chickem707]

Maybe try isolating the lead hen? Or nain bully?

 

[Shorty22366]

When mine pick on one of the smaller ones I step in and pick on the bully and make her feel like the smaller one does and I know a lot of people will say that doesn't work but I know it does because they learn someone one is going to take up for the smaller and they don't like to be bullied and they learn if they stop it stops for them also.