Playing VS. Fighting

[JesikaD01]

Our chicks are between 5-7 weeks old and we just moved them into the (inside) coop yesterday. They have all seemed to be getting along great in their brooder and seem to love the spacious coop however today I was watching them and a couple seem to be fighting...or playing? they kind of charge at each other but stop almost immediately...

they are supposed to all be pullets but ...who knows

is that playing or fighting???



any gender predictions would be appreciated too

 

[farmer12]

i think its just a little playing
its probly fine but keep in eye on them

 

[farmer12]

if the one with spots in the middle is barred rock
it looks like a pullet

 

[JesikaD01]

it is and thanks~
I was watching them again tonight and it is never the same 2 so I guess it is just playing...at least there is not one bully at this point

 

[Avonshire]

My guys are always chest bumping(as I call it). I think they are working on a pecking order. I have 2 6 week olds and 10 2 weeks olds. The 2 week olds will do it with the 6 weeks olds which just cracks me up. What worries me with mine is my 6 week old dominant chick seems to peck at the smaller ones and when she does it makes them squawk. It does not seem to be doing any damage. I would say though to keep an eye out for any redness or feather loss--then you know you have a problem! Also I don't know what I have in regards to boys or girls! I am just waiting for the cock a doodling!

 

[madi99]

my chicks do the same and they are only 16 days old! its really funny to watch the two that i think are roosters to stand up really tall in front of each other and try to see who's bigger! or they'll stand on top of their waterer and jump onto the other one and then run away because they are scared that the other will be mad! its so much fun to watch them interact but make sure you keep an eye on the little ones!!

 

[JesikaD01]

Thanks guys!
Luckily they are all about the same age even thought some are much bigger. I hope they all continue to love eachother...and are all hens!

 

[centrarchid]

It is play when no contact involving beaks and wings. Otherwise actual conflict.

 

[Wallygator]

My chicks do the same thing it seems more like play but occasionally they will peck each other.

 

[n8ivetxn]

x2. Mostly it's the boys doing it, but the girls will too sometimes..