Scared Hen

[Moomie]

I have 7 pullets and one cockrel, all around 12 weeks. The cockrel, Zesty, has started trying his hand with the ladies which I've read is age appropriate. The ladies squwak at him and move along.

Here's my problem. My sweet Dixie Rainbow, Scratchy, had ocular Marek's when she was just 6 weeks old. We had her left eye removed and she is thriving now. So when Zesty tries to mount her she doesn't see him and then it's to late for her to get away. She sounds like she's being murder. I have only noticed this within the last week or so but now she's scared of him - like won't go near him, walks a wide berth around him scared.

I don't know what to do. Zesty doesn't seem aggressive to me. As I said, the other ladies just brush him off. I really think it's because Scratchy can't see him that it's an issue. I hadn't planned on having a rooster, won't be hatching chicks or eating the chickens.

I'm really torn because he's a good bird but I have an extra soft spot for Scratchy and it breaks my heart that she's scared.

Any thoughts, tips or tricks are greatly appreciated!

 

[Aapomp831]

I have 7 pullets and one cockrel, all around 12 weeks. The cockrel, Zesty, has started trying his hand with the ladies which I've read is age appropriate. The ladies squwak at him and move along.

Here's my problem. My sweet Dixie Rainbow, Scratchy, had ocular Marek's when she was just 6 weeks old. We had her left eye removed and she is thriving now. So when Zesty tries to mount her she doesn't see him and then it's to late for her to get away. She sounds like she's being murder. I have only noticed this within the last week or so but now she's scared of him - like won't go near him, walks a wide berth around him scared.

I don't know what to do. Zesty doesn't seem aggressive to me. As I said, the other ladies just brush him off. I really think it's because Scratchy can't see him that it's an issue. I hadn't planned on having a rooster, won't be hatching chicks or eating the chickens.

I'm really torn because he's a good bird but I have an extra soft spot for Scratchy and it breaks my heart that she's scared.

Any thoughts, tips or tricks are greatly appreciated!

It’s completely natural for her to be terrified; chickens are one of the most predated species, and being blind on one side she probably thinks she’s being attacked by something. Maybe she will get used to it and stop being afraid - but with this girl, I would possibly consider getting her her own friends and separating them from any rooster. I understand this may be impractical - hopefully some others will be along shortly with more input.