Kitchen Garden Forum

Since some of my hens started to moult there seems to be a lot more strife than before. Previously they seemed to rub along quite happily with just the odd tiff, but now war seems to have broken out with quite long lasting scuffles. Some hens are mounting others as if they are cockerels. Is this something to do with the moult? It doesn't seem to be the same individual hens, they all seem to do it at some point. They have a roomy house and loads of outdoor space with access to grass etc, plus concentrates. What is going on?

When is this happening? It sounds like something has spooked them? Maybe a fox on the prowl or mink trying to get into the house, or even large rats can upset chickens. Any other changes to their routine?
Have a good look round the outside of the hen house for signs of predetors.

Now you come to mention it a neighbour said he thought a fox was around a week or so ago, and they do seem to have settled down now...

A fox wuold do that, especially if they are now settled. Keep them safe and good luck!