Snotty teenage Orpington

[Elaine E]

I have a hen who was the sweetest youngster ever. she was spoiled and handled constantly, one of those chickens that snuggle. Now she is 5 mo.s old and real snotty. She has begun to peck me when I reach for her and sometimes will peck when I am just working in the coop. I have never had a bird do this to me. The other hens in the coop are all well mannered. So, my question is this: how do you correct a chicken's behavior?

 

[RowanTheRed]

peck her right back! use your finger and peck her on top of her noggin

 

[Elaine E]

peck her right back! use your finger and peck her on top of her noggin

This is exactly what I have been doing. I say "No" while I'm bopping her. She runs away like I've slugged her on the chin. Then she won't come near me and runs wide circles around me making all kinds of stupid noise. I will keep it up, though. Maybe she'll out grow this. I have also seen her leap 2 feet in the air when one of the bantams pecks in her direction because she is interfering with their business. Such a drama princess.