Strange behavior for young chickens

[silentrunning]

I have 6 R.I.R. females that are 6 weeks old. When they are in their cage they are perfectly behaved. When I let them out to roam in the yard they become Kung Fu chickens. They assume the standard cock fight position and get the neck feathers all ruffled up. They jump up in the air and try to claw each other. They peck and bite each other. They actually pull each others feathers out sometimes. When I put them back in their cage they become perfect ladies again. They cuddle up to roost and never fight in the cage. What is up with this behavior?

Doug

 

[conroy]

Are you sure they are all pullets?

 

[tabatha_westcott]

Maybe they have their pecking order down in the cage but not outside...?

 

[spook]

Quote:
That is what I'd assume. Poultry have a constant pecking order to maintain. There could also be a roo in the midst, time will tell. Usually hens (mine) will hold a grudge and chase the one that they are mad at down. Its unreal how my girls will hunt each other down and for the day pull that "I'll get you" attitude.
As long as they are not drawing blood let them work it out.
Good luck!

 

[silentrunning]

Quote:
No. I'm going by what the breeder said.