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Problem with the pecking order

Discussion in 'Chicken Behaviors and Egglaying' started by councilwoods, Jan 11, 2015.

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  1. Jan 11, 2015 #1
    councilwoods

    councilwoods New Egg

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    Dec 29, 2014
    We have one hen that is smaller than the rest. Up until the point she started molting they all got along just fine. Unfortunately when she molted and looked different they started pecking her. I ended up having to separate her in order to heal her up because she was bleeding and it was only getting worse. Now after having reintroduced her into the flock, she is still at the bottom of the pecking order.

    They are not allowing her inside the coop, to eat or drink, or roost. We have to go out there and stand there while she eats and once she is roosting, we shut off the lights and they allow her to stay inside. If we don't she is stuck outside in the cold. How do I change this behavior?

    We normally keep water outside in the run but it's winter and will just freeze solid. She needs to be allowed into the coop to stay warm and eat and drink. Ideas?
     
  3. Jan 11, 2015 #2
    ThePRfan

    ThePRfan Chillin' With My Peeps

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    Sep 27, 2014
    There really is no way to change it,but there are many ways to reintegrate her again.

    You should probably have in a cage in the coop,or another coop,with a outdoor run.
    After 1 week or2 she should be good to go back in,her being so low in the peck order,all anger is put on her and etc.

    Reintegrate her with treats.She should be in the coop with others,normally treats should distract all attention from her,but theyll still see her and will be too focused on food.

    Do uou free range?
     

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