Home

The Hierarchical System Among Chickens

The Pecking Order, A Natural Disturbance Among the Flock

Chickens are social animals that naturally establish a pecking order within their group. The pecking order is a hierarchical system that determines the rank and status of each chicken in the flock. The pecking order is important for the social organization of the flock and helps to maintain order, reduce aggression, and ensure access to resources such as food, water, and nesting sites.
The establishment of a pecking order is a natural process that begins when chicks are first introduced to each other.
Chickens use a variety of signals and behaviors to establish their place in the pecking order, including aggression, dominance displays, and submissive behaviors.
The factors that determine the pecking order among chickens:
Age
Older chickens tend to have higher status in the pecking order than younger chickens. This is because older chickens are larger and more experienced, and they have had more time to establish their dominance within the flock.
Size and Strength:
Chickens that are larger and stronger tend to have higher status in the pecking order. These chickens are able to compete more effectively for resources such as food, water, and nesting sites, and they are often able to intimidate smaller and weaker birds.
Personality:
Chickens have different personalities, and some birds are more assertive and dominant than others. Chickens that are more aggressive and assertive tend to have higher status in the pecking order than more submissive birds.
Previous Interactions:
Chickens remember previous interactions with other birds and use this information to establish their place in the pecking order. If a chicken has successfully challenged another bird in the past, it may be more likely to challenge that bird again in the future.

Once the pecking order is established, each chicken knows its place in the hierarchy and behaves accordingly. Chickens at the top of the pecking order are more likely to have access to resources such as food and water, and they may also have access to better nesting sites. Chickens at the bottom of the pecking order are more likely to be subjected to aggression and may have limited access to resources. However, the pecking order also helps to reduce aggression and maintain order within the flock by establishing clear social boundaries and reducing the need for constant competition.

Back to Chicken Keeping Resources HOME PAGE

The Role of a Rooster and the Benefits of Having One

The primary role of a rooster in a flock of chickens is to fertilize the eggs laid by the hens. Aside from fertilizing eggs, roosters also play a protective role in the flock. They are naturally aggressive and territorial animals that will defend their hens from predators, such as hawks, foxes, and other animals that may threaten the flock.
Another benefit of having a rooster in the flock is that they can help to establish a pecking order among the hens, which can reduce aggression and fighting within the flock. Additionally, the presence of a rooster can help to stimulate the hens to lay more eggs, as the hens will be more likely to mate and produce fertilized eggs.
Unfortunately, roosters are not usually allowed within the city limits in most states because of noise ordinances. But if that law doesn’t apply to you, a rooster most definitely has an important role in maintaining a harmonious social structure among the hens. Lucky you!

Special Considerations for Keeping a Rooster

As a general rule of thumb, a rooster can comfortably handle around 10-12 hens in a flock. It’s important to provide enough space and resources for all the birds to thrive, and to monitor the flock for any signs of aggression or over-mating, which can be harmful to the hens. Keep in mind, a spacious area for you flock is always a better environment when a rooster is present.

Back to Chicken Keeping Resources HOME PAGE

Spring Cleaning the Chicken Coop Here’s How in Six Steps

That Once a Year Deep Clean Time Has Arrived

After months of cold weather, the coop is probably about as foul as it ever gets, so it’s that time of year for deep cleaning. That means bedding, nest boxes, roosts, feeders & drinkers, and scraping up all the soiled material from the floor.

Confine the chickens to an outdoor run for the day with a sandbox or fresh dirt to have a nice dust bath while their coop is being cleaned. It’s best to let the coop air out & dry for most of the day before adding new shavings and bedding. Choose a sunny breezy day for this not-so-fun chore because the coop will air out and dry quicker. Don’t forget to wear gloves, boots, and a mask when cleaning, there’s going to be all kinds of nasty dust and muck stirred up that can’t be healthy for you… so gear up and protect yourself.

If your chickens are in a shed or enclosed structure, avoid harsh cleaners, vinegar & Dawn dish soap is a suitable cleaner and safe for you and your birds. Use a putty knife to scrape off hard-to-clean areas, and sweep out all the old bedding and pests that have probably been hiding in there over the winter. If you have windows, brush off the cobwebs and all the feathers stuck in them, get the Windex, and make the glass shine.

There are always repairs or needed improvements on chicken coops, and this is the time to address them. Duct tape, zip ties, and baling wire go a long way to fixing things, so make sure you’re armed with these valuable tools. 🙂

After the coop has been thoroughly cleaned, add your fresh bedding, feeders & drinkers, and nest boxes, and don’t be afraid to move things around and make changes. Chickens don’t mind change, and a little change of scenery might even be welcomed. Before returning your birds to the coop, this is a good time to check their individual overall health and address accordingly.

The Simple Version:
Here Are the Six Spring Cleaning Steps to Follow:

  1. Empty the coop: Start by removing all of the bedding and nesting material from the coop. This includes any straw or wood shavings, as well as any old eggs or feathers that may have accumulated.
  2. Scrub the coop: Use a scrub brush and mild detergent to thoroughly clean the inside of the coop. Pay special attention to the corners and crevices, where dirt and bacteria can accumulate. Rinse the coop with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
  3. Treat for pests: Check for any signs of pests, such as mites or lice. If you see any, treat the coop and chickens with a pest control product that is safe for use around poultry.
  4. Inspect and repair: Inspect the coop for any signs of wear or damage, such as holes in the walls or roof. Repair any damage before adding new bedding to the coop.
  5. Add new bedding: Once the coop is clean and dry, add fresh bedding to the floor and nest boxes. Choose a bedding material that is appropriate for your chickens, such as straw or wood shavings.
  6. Restock supplies: Check your supplies of food and restock as needed, make sure you have extra in case of a shortage.

By following these instructions, you can ensure that your chickens have a clean and healthy living environment.

Back to Chicken Keeping Resources HOME PAGE

%d bloggers like this: