- Aug 4, 2009
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Hi. We are fairly new to backyard chickens, and have a chicken behavior problem we need some advice on. We had a flock of three 8-month old hens (one Golden-laced Wyandotte and 2 Barred Rocks). Last week we added a Buff Orpington and a Blue Silkie to the flock. Our top hen, the larger Barred Rock, Delilah, is not tolerating the new additions. We have been keeping the new hens in our garage at night, and letting them forage in view but with no physical access to the old hens during the day. When we let them mingle (with supervision), Delilah pecks very aggressively at the two new hens. The Orpington seems to be able to handle herself, but the poor little Silkie is small and not so quick. I should add that the other two old hens are not a bit interested in the new hens.
I am starting to feel like we should be taking Delilah out at night, rather than the two new hens, but am not sure how she would respond upon returning. Is this a bad idea or should we continue as we have been until she (hopefully) adjusts?
Thanks in advance for the advice.
I am starting to feel like we should be taking Delilah out at night, rather than the two new hens, but am not sure how she would respond upon returning. Is this a bad idea or should we continue as we have been until she (hopefully) adjusts?
Thanks in advance for the advice.