To stop chickens from killing each other, ensure adequate space, provide hiding spots, monitor pecking order, and separate aggressive individuals.
Chickens attacking and killing each other is a serious problem that can decimate your flock. While establishing a pecking order is normal, violent aggression requires immediate action. This guide provides actionable strategies to prevent cannibalism and restore peace to your coop.
Why Are My Chickens Killing Each Other?
Chickens may turn violent due to:
- Overcrowding (less than 4 sq ft per bird)
- Boredom and lack of enrichment
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Bright lighting (over 40 watts)
- Stress from temperature changes
- Inadequate feeder/waterer space
Breed-Specific Aggression
Some breeds like Rhode Island Reds and Barred Rocks tend to be more aggressive. Mixed flocks often see color-based bullying – dark hens attacking lighter ones as reported by many backyard keepers.
7 Immediate Steps to Stop Chicken Attacks
1. Separate Aggressive Birds Immediately
Remove violent chickens at first sign of blood. Use a separate coop or cage for 2-4 weeks. Reintroduce slowly during supervised free-range time.
2. Increase Living Space
Provide minimum:
| Age | Space per Bird |
|---|---|
| 8-16 weeks | 1.5 sq ft |
| Adults | 4 sq ft (coop) + 10 sq ft (run) |
3. Add Environmental Enrichment
Prevent boredom with:
- Hanging cabbage or lettuce heads
- Forage boxes with scratch grains
- Dust bathing areas
- Perches at different heights
4. Use Anti-Pecking Devices
For persistent offenders:
- Pinless peepers (blinders)
- Bumper bits (allow eating but not pecking)
- Hen saddles (protect backs)
5. Adjust Lighting
Use red bulbs (max 40W) and limit daylight to 16 hours. Bright white light increases aggression.
6. Improve Nutrition
Ensure:
- 18-20% protein feed
- Free-choice grit and oyster shell
- Multiple feeding stations
7. Treat Wounds Promptly
Isolate injured birds and clean wounds with saline. Apply Blu-Kote to deter further pecking. Consider feather regrowth supplements.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
Proper Introductions
When adding new birds, follow proper introduction techniques. Use wire dividers for 1-2 weeks before full integration.
Seasonal Considerations
Monitor flocks closely during:
- Temperature swings
- Molting season
- Increased confinement in winter
Alternative Solutions
For chronic offenders:
- Rehome aggressive birds
- Keep separate breeding groups
- Consider breed selection (avoid mixing highly aggressive breeds)
Persistent cannibalism may require culling problem birds. As one experienced keeper noted, “Some are just bad eggs and will do it no matter what you do – those should go into a pot before they cause too much damage.”