The rest of the flock dislikes a hen

[LoboOaksGal]

I have a small flock of six hens--one old lady, three 2yr olds, two 1yr olds--and a 1 yr old, big, Lavender Orpington rooster. This past November, the rooster-Rocky-and one of the 2yr olds-Alice-had a falling out. I think Rocky, in his youthful vigor, hurt her. She's always been a high-maintenance hen, but she's been afraid of him ever since and avoids leaving the coop if she can, although she's still laying eggs. And now, he and a couple of the other hens gang up on her when they get the chance. Rocky stands sideways on her while the hens peck at her; it looks like a scene out of an old horror movie. During warm, sunny days I move her into another pen, but it's often too cold to let her be alone especially at night. I'm at my wits end about how to fix this. The relationships seems to be getting worse. Any advice is appreciated.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Try removing the rooster for a while to try to reset things and see how the females get along without his influence. Orpingtons mature slowly and often can be buttheads their first year. Mine are generally good roosters by their second year.

 

[LoboOaksGal]

Try removing the rooster for a while to try to reset things and see how the females get along without his influence. Orpingtons mature slowly and often can be buttheads their first year. Mine are generally good roosters by their second year.

Thanks. I'll give it a try.