Rooster Acting Strange Around Flock + Other Rooster

[lmadeline146]

For the past week or so, my 27wk less-dominant rooster has been acting very strange. He tends to hide away from his flock and spend most of his time in the coop, while the others remain in the chicken run. I have noticed the other hens pecking at his odd-looking tail, but this has gone on ever since we’ve got him, and I have tried so many things to stop them from pecking at his tail, but they won’t. He walks very awkwardly. I’ve seen my other rooster (more dominant) approach him and try to peck at his tail, but i’ve yet to see them actually fight. I think the flock may just be pecking at his tail because it stands out. What should I do?

 

[Poultrybonkers]

Sounds like he tried fighting other rooster and lost and now is scared of head rooster which is why hes hiding in the coop as for the tail i would stop that before it becomes a habit of feather picking

 

[ChickNanny13]

Could we get a picture of his tail? Other than his tail being "different" is there any other issues? Eating/drinking/pooping ok? Has he always walked "awkwardly" ... Video will help (load it to YouTube then here). Picture of his legs/feet would be helpful.

It's very possible his tail has caused him to be the target to the flock, which has put him really low in the pecking order and hurting his self esteem. You may want to rehome him, maybe separate him til his tail grows in then give him his own younger hens.

 

[lmadeline146]

Sounds like he tried fighting other rooster and lost and now is scared of head rooster which is why hes hiding in the coop as for the tail i would stop that before it becomes a habit of feather picking

Any ideas on how to stop the feather picking?

 

[ChickNanny13]

Think there's a spray, try calling the feed store. Also what are you feeding your flock?
Feather pecking could be a need for higher protein which feathers are. Although your problem seems to be more a pecking order issue.