Will My New 2 Yr Old Cochin Hen Stop Pecking My Three-Month Pullets?

[Queengoddess]

Got a 2-yr old white Cochin hen to add to my flock of three-month old hens (Silkies, Frizzles and an Ameraucana). She pecks them--HARD. Will this stop once she's used to her new environment, or did I make a mistake by adding her? :/

 

[CorinneP]

I would watch her very carefully .. until your young chicks are stronger and larger to defend them selves. I have a strung divider that I often keep new additions on one side and the others on the other side . I feel I have less fighting once they get integrated together as they get used to each other through the wire. But That's just my feelings lol And I am a little Chicken crazy .. If she keeps pecking aggressively I would separate them for another month or two until your 3 month olds are more mature to defend them selves. It is often just the pecking order where she is telling them I am bigger and stronger and you should know this right now

 

[sourland]

If you have enough space, she is not drawing blood, and the younger birds are still being allowed to eat and drink - they will work things out. If not, separate her until until the young birds mature.

 

[Queengoddess]

No blood (just feather plucking occasionally), and everybody still eats and drinks (though just ot while SHE is sometimes), so maybe all will be well. Thanks for the advice.

 

[sourland]

Chicken society (the pecking order) can be pretty harsh until things get organized. Sounds as if things are going to be OK.