Strange Behavior starting in my flock

[hrich59]

I have 3 roosters, and 28 hens. Earlier this week, I started noticing that two hens were staying on a shelf, on my carport. Today, I was outside, when one of them ventured out into the yard. Nearly immediately, all three roosters and a couple of the hens ran and jumped her. When she retreated back on the carport, they went back to the flock. I've started putting food and water on the carport for them. Note: They are allowed into the coop at night, and they roost with the other hens. Anybody care to venture, what the problem might be?

 

[Purelychicks]

If a chicken in the flock is weak or sick they will do this. (Outcast them) because they know their weak.

 

[sourland]

Upon occasion roosters will start 'gang breeding' a hen or hens who resist their advances. The rest of the flock can pick up on this behavior. It is difficult if not impossible for such hens to regain position in the flock as long as the roosters are present.

 

[hrich59]

Purelychicks, I checked them both out today, after that incident. They both seem strong, and they are laying on the shelf. Thanks, and I'll watch them close, this weekend.
Sourland, that might be what's happening. One of them has feathers missing on the head. One of the roosters was hatched last fall, and may want her, while the two older ones don't want to give her up. I realize that 8 to 1 ratio is a little low, but I didn't want to get rid of the new one, since I have 20 chicks coming in next month. I guess I'll just wait and see. Thanks