[Nicki85]

Today I saw some very strange hen behaviour...

I have four hens two of which are laying (Doreen and Lilith), one is crouching (has been for a couple of weeks- Delia) and the last one is still young (Ruby).

Today Delia was stood infront of Doreen who is usually her best pal.  But Doreen was pecking at her back- a cross between feather pecking and grooming (do chickens groom each other??).  Doreen then stopped and grabbed Delia by her wattles  :blink:  Poor Delia looked a little suprised but didn't run off, just stood there.  Doreen then ingnored her and usual chicken behaviour resumed 

I can't figure it out- why didn't Delia run away?  Why did Doreen do it in the first place?

My initial thoughts are... Doreen thinks she might be a cockrel... Delia got confused and started crouching for Doreen so was in a bit of a 'frozen state'...

Hmmm thoughts?  Anything I need to worry about?  I did pick Delia up and give her a good check- her crop was full and no sign of feather pecking etc.  They are usually a happy flock with minimal pecking or bullying.

[evie2]

Haven't got an answer however when the poots were all lying together sunbathing the other day one was grooming the nearest to her

[ANHBUC]

Just part of establishing the pecking order I think.  Ours seem to change their alliances now and then which can be comical but can also be upsetting to watch.