Roost wrestling...not enough room?

[#Midlifecrisis]

Hello Chickie mommy's and daddy's. I have 6, 5 weeks old pullets that have been together since hatching. Mixed flock of 2 EE's, 2 BR and 2 SS. I have noticed for the past 3-4 nights they are all fighting for a single roost spot. They just started roosting to sleep and like the top most roost which is a 2x4x36in on it's side. The coop is only 16sq ft, 3'x5.6' (originally I had only planned for 3 hens, but you know...chicken math), so I don't know if it is the size of the coop or the lighting or just pecking order business.

Basically, they all get up on the same roost and either climb over, under or push another off to try to get to the left most spot. And it's not just 1 or 2 of them doing it, it is ALL of them trying to get this very prized location.

Is this normal? Should I be concerned? Do I need to change something in the coop? They free range 10-14 hrs a day but are locked in the coop the rest of the time. Is that too long?

Here's the interior of the coop. The "ladder" was initially for the chicks to practice roosting which they did during the day but at night would sleep on the coop floor in a pile regardless of temperature. They now use it climb up to the higher roosts. They all fight for the left (your left) most corner of the highest roost. I have been closing the window at night as the over night temps have been in the 50's.

 

[Beer can]

Normal behavior. They're just like kid's, doesn't matter if it's a better spot to sit or not if one of them takes it the others want it. Lol.

 

[#Midlifecrisis]

Normal behavior. They're just like kid's, doesn't matter if it's a better spot to sit or not if one of them takes it the others want it. Lol.

Thanks! They do make quite the commotion. It is a bit comical too to see them try to "tunnel" under the hen next to them.

 

[aart]

RoostTimeRumble!!
Even with a single level roost, they bicker over the 'best' spot.