Tried to move new chicks out to the run.....I need help!

[susannalee]

Four of my five hens were pecking the younger ones relentlessly. I had them next to the run all week, so they would get used to seeing them. I've also had them free ranging together. The chicks are 10-12 weeks old, so not that much smaller than the hens. I removed them again and put them in the crate next to the run.

I need advice. I expected some pecking etc, but this was savage!

 

[sumi]

I would suggest you continue letting them free range together and sleep separately, but within sight of each other, until the chicks are older and bigger. Give them all a bit more time to get used to each other. There will be some pecking and bullying as they reestablish the pecking order, but if it's severe like you said, it's better to separate them a bit longer.

 

[susannalee]

Thank you.

 

[Avianman]

Gonna agree...there is some bullying necessary. I had a Jersey Giant KO a serama once with one well-placed peck (she's fine now) but the confrontation has to happen- it is part of flock dynamics.
That said, it doesn't mean you need to sit by and watch. Here, we use pinless peepers for the first few days on the bullies. Inexpensive and they work, even with the nastiest rooster! After a few days of unsuccessful confrontation (they'll still try) they just kind of "give up" on the bullying.