Rooster flogging hens

[FeatherCrest]

Hi all! After spending many hours reading here, I finally decided to create an account. And immediately start with a question:
Our rooster recently started flogging the hens. It only happens when they're eating; he really does not want to share anymore. He used to call the girls whenever he found a nice treat, now he jumps them and chases them away.

They are almost 1 year old and have been with us for the last 6 months. They got along fine, and still do, until there is food. Any thoughts what could have caused this, and how we can fix it? Thanks!

 

[aart]

I would segregate him away from the girls immediately.
At least for most the day to give the girls a break and to prevent injuries.

As to why?
Any changes in the flock(other than the attacks), feed, coop, run, or surrounding area lately?

How many girls and how big is your coop and run?
Dimensions and some pics would help immensely.
Here's some guides for forum navigation and how to post pics.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forums/announcements-feedback-issues-guides.3/?prefix_id=3

Oh, and...Welcome to BYC! @FeatherCrest
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, (laptop version shown), then it's always there!

 

[Mybackyardpeepers]

Good morning and welcome to the BYC flock!!! I had a frizzle Cockerel silkie that would get excited about food, treats then make everyone get away from him. I no longer have him (he's living it up at my daughter house) He was getting rough with my pullets and then started going after my 5yr old. I don't blame him for his actions as it is most likely hormones starting, but I still won't put up with it

 

[FortCluck]

How many feeders do you have?

I have two roosters, but I have six different feeding stations for all my chickens so that the roosters and any other dominant hens don't try to chase everyone away from all the feeders. There are more feeders than there are roosters/top hens.

When I give scraps in the afternoon after dinner, I make sure that I spread them out as far as they will go so that everyone is able to get some.

 

[chickens really]

Is he Molting? In winter my Rooster stopped breeding the Hens. Everyone took a break till after the winter solstice. Provide another feeder.

 

[Chickassan]

I second the time of the year given his age.
They get a wee bit off in the head when days shorten, with the stuff that happens to them can't really.blame them.

 

[FeatherCrest]

Thanks for all the replies!

We have one feeder, for 4 chickens. Their coop is about 15m2, but they get to roam free in our garden (400m2) all day. We'll get another feeder, thanks!

He has just finished moulting, so my guess was that he needed the food more than before, to regain strength. Another thing that has changed is that he stopped going after me: about once a week he would flog me, but since I started picking him up after an attack he is very meek. He also started eating out of my hand, which is new. I really hope I did not disturb the pecking order too much by showing him who's boss..

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. Another feeder plus ad lib feeding should solve the problem. If not he would have to leave my flock.

 

[FeatherCrest]

Welcome to BYC. Another feeder plus ad lib feeding should solve the problem. If not he would have to leave my flock.

They do have food available at all times. It is just that when one starts eating, they all want to eat. Including the rooster. I'm not ready to let go of him yet, however, once the hens start showing fear or get injured he will definitely have to go.

 

[Jandsloch]

I agree with everyone here. Would also like to ask if you give them any treats? Just thinking. If he’s needing more food after an attack or molt perhaps throwing down some black oil sunflower seeds for extra protein would help fill his need and if u scatter (like I do) then he can’t flog everyone at the same time in all directions. I wouldn’t do a whole lot but after my flock was attacked I had some wounds pulled feathers etc. so I decided some extra protein these colder days may help so I started throwing about 2cups full (11 chickens) throughout the yard before I opened their door. They then had to forage for the treats keeping everyone occupied