Pecking Order

[SLA]

One of our smaller hens (they are all 9-10 weeks old) has consistently been the most adventurous of our eight pullets. She’s been the first to explore new areas of the brooder and now coop, to try new foods, to win in the “ food run”. She has also shown a clear protectiveness of the weakest of our chicken octet. We haven’t witnessed her pecking at others, but it seems they know she is the leader. We’ve witnessed her shielding a slow feathering hen with her wings, yet when she wants a space on one of the perches, for example, she makes sure she gets her spot by a firm and confident flight. Have any of you witnessed a ”benevolent queen” among your flock?

 

[Yardmom]

Not unusual for one hen to take charge..

 

[SLA]

Yes, I know that chickens have a pecking order and that there is the head honcho. I think I was assuming she would be more aggressive. Maybe she will be in time, but I’m happy that I don’t see any bullying behavior. in fact, she seems very protective of the flock, which is so sweet to witness. I was wondering if others’ flock leaders are gentle.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Head hens often rule through position alone. Like if they want to eat, they simply walk up to the feeders and the others make way. Really the only time mine lays the smackdown is when a uppity youngster unwisely challenges her authority.

 

[aart]

One of our smaller hens (they are all 9-10 weeks old) has consistently been the most adventurous of our eight pullets.

They are still chicks!
Pecking order behaviors can vary widely.... and change.

FYI-PSA.....semantics, maybe, but can be important communication terms when discussing chicken behavior.
Female chickens are called pullets until one year of age, then they are called hens.
Male chickens are called cockerels until one year of age, then they are called cocks(or cockbirds or roosters).
Age in weeks or months is always a good thing to note.

 

[neo71665]

My GLW has been head bird since day one. She had a hard time when I added a roo because the rest automatically followed him. Been almost a year and she still has issues with a rooster being over her.

 

[SLA]

Mine are still pullets. My “benevolent queen” has been a leader since her little fluff-ball days. I hope she remains in charge because I like her style, however, I know things might change since they’re just in their 10th week of life.

 

[SLA]

My GLW has been head bird since day one. She had a hard time when I added a roo because the rest automatically followed him. Been almost a year and she still has issues with a rooster being over her.

I don’t blame her!

 

[cmom]

They always establish a pecking order and one will be the alpha.

 

[SLA]

They always establish a pecking order and one will be the alpha.

It will be interesting to see which girl takes the top spot.