Single Hen Inquiry

[2chickens4me]

Hello All,

I have two backyard chickens. One Rhode Island Red and one Golden Comet. The Golden bullies my red ALL the time. It breaks my heart. The red is a real friendly lap chicken indoor outdoor pet.
Would my red be sad if I gave the Golden to new home? Even if she has me and is spoiled? I can’t imagine she would favor the bullying but I want to do what’s best.

Thanks in advance.

 

[azygous]

It sounds like the Red already spends time away from the Golden when you have her spend time indoors. If she's happy with that arrangement, she likely won't miss the Golden if you gave her away.

As long as a chicken gets plenty of attention from humans, they won't be lonely. However, if the Red has to spend long hours alone in the run, things could get lonely without a flock to satisfy her flock instincts.

If you give the Golden away, and later decide that a couple more chickens would be a better idea, get two chicks and raise them in proximity to the Red so she will know they are her flock. Later, there won't need to be any integration issues.