Shes gone balistic!

[gryeyes]

If it's more than just the curious pecking, which is quite different from the demanding peck, I peck right back. *I* have more status than any hen, and the high status hens don't put up with being pecked by lower status hens.

Just put forefinger and middle finger together and thunk the chicken upside the head, or on the back of the head. (I also add, "No!" but I don't know if the verbal command is really all that effective.)

If I have to, I will peck twice. It shows the chicken I won't put up with being pecked.

It works for me - "mean peckers" don't peck ME any more. I even do it if one of 'em pecks another in my presence, just like a rooster will break up hen fights.

 

[HorseFeatherz NV]

You can also give the feathers on her neck a slight tug or pull - just as one hen or chicken would to another.

I grab them, generally around the neck - not squeezing, just holding for a second - restraining them - and then releasing.

Like gryeyes I also say NO or make a "you shouldn't do that noise" And I break up squabbles - I am the boss of the flock and even my head roo knows it.

 

[Kathleen1115]

Has she started laying yet? My RIR did the exact same thing for about 3 weeks right before she started laying -- went from being our most docile chick to pecking at feet and pants, even hands. As soon as she started laying she calmed right down and stopped pecking. We're attributing it to raging hormones.

 

[jason_mazzy]

I'm wondeering if shes feeling really broody. chicken PMS!