Sparring Pullets

[PiersonPeeps]

I have never raised laying hens before, only meat birds, so this is a new experience for me. Is it normal for the pullets to spar and posture with each other? I know that they have to establish a pecking order. I also know that some of the "girls" are going to be roos. Does this factor into it also? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[sourland]

Young pullets will spar and 'play' fight as much as young cockerels. Their behavior will not generally escalate unlike many cockerels when they become testosterone poisoned.

 

[scratch'n'peck]

I've seen young pullets spar some, and young roos to be face off as well. It usually doesn't last too long. I have even seen adult hens spar on occasion but of course not as intense as two roosters.

 

[WalkingOnSunshine]

I have two pens of young chickens right now--a meat pen with some heritage roos and some straight run meaties, and a pullet pen. This morning, there were chicken fights all over the yard. I think the sparring is cute. It's just chicken playing, the same as puppies chase and wrestle and kittens play-fight.