I have been given a black aracana just about point of lay (about 18 weeks old) I have put her in with my other 5 chickens who are about 3 years old. She is getting a bit pecked but no serious injuries. However they are chasing her away from the food and when I check her crop at night she has had very little. I have started hand feeding her mixed grain just before dusk to ensure she goes to bed with a fuller crop. She's been in with the other for just over a week. Can I expect this behaviour will continue? Should I perservere or isolate her? If I isolate her when should i reintroduce her? Thanks for your help.
I'd say to just make sure that she is getting her share of the food. This is most important. With her being on the bottom of the totem pole, it can be difficult for her. Keep an eye on her, to make sure all is well. Good luck!!
Place feed and water in several other locations and check to see that they are not physically injuring her. To remove her now if they are not physically injuring her would only prolong the integration process.
The crop is the little food storage sack located in the V of the wishbone. It is possible to gently palpate it and see if the chicken has any feed "stored" for use.
