What makes a chicken coop easy to live with?

[art12345]

Ive noticed in the last few days as my hens have been coming back into lay that the Sultans are having their beards pecked at by my japanese bantam. She is half the size of them as well.

I watched her yesterday and they just stand there and let her do it. These hasnt been any blood drawn but it seems a shame and unfair that they should put but with this bullying. Im sure its a dominance issue.

They have a large run with plenty to do, the only anti pecking stuff ive got it that purple spray stuff. Shall i use that and have purple faced chickens? i realise ill have to be v careful about not getting it in their eyes.

any other suggestions.

[Patricia W]

Are you sure they are not " grooming" her? My Polands peck each other's hair do's at bedtime - no damage done, just getting bits of dirt out for each other - and not mites, because I checked.

 

Tricia

[art12345]

Well i looked and she has a definate bald patch so i dont think that its just grooming

[staceychristie]

Ours peck each others beaks. I think they are cleaning each other up (and trying to pinch any food they can find.) They aren't aggressive.

 

Stacey X

[Patricia W]

No - a bald patch is more than pecking! Anyone got any ideas?

 

Tricia

[Egluntyne]

Try anti pecking spray.

 

They can't be feeling too bullied if they are allowing her to do it. Have you checked them over for beasties?