Rooster Behavior with Younger Chicks - Should I Be Concerned?

[HappyHens]

Hey everyone,

I've been letting my 9-week-old chicks mingle with my 4-week-olds in a controlled space. I have two roosters among the 9-week-olds, and the younger chicks are both hens. The roosters have been pecking at and trying to assert dominance over the younger ones. When this happens, I step in and move the roosters away.

Is this normal behavior or should I be concerned? Any tips on managing this?

[CluckinAround]

As long as the pecking isnt escalating into serious injury, they should be fine. Just keep monitoring and give the younger chicks options to escape.

[FeatherAlchemy]

Its normal for older chicks to try to assert dominance, especially roosters. Just keep monitoring and intervening when needed. They should settle down soon.

[RoosterRambler]

Pecking and trying to dominate is normal in flock dynamics, but if it turns too violent, you might need to separate them until theyre more integrated.

[CompostChampion]

Youre doing the right thing by intervening. Keep making sure there are safe spaces for the younger chicks, and things should get smoother.

[NestDetective]

Keep a close eye on the roosters. If theyre being too aggressive, separate them until the younger chicks are bigger.

[BarnyardBeast]

It's definitely normal rooster behavior, but don't hesitate to separate if it seems too intense or if the younger chicks are getting hurt.

[HatchlingHustler]

Yes, roosters can get territorial and try to assert themselves. I'd let them work it out but continue to supervise, especially with younger chicks.

[Eggspeditionist]

Sounds like natural pecking order stuff, but it's good that you're intervening. Make sure the younger chicks have places to escape to.

[FreeRangeDreamer]

It's probably a phase. The roosters are just trying to figure out their place in the pecking order. As long as you intervene when needed, they should be fine.