Is there always a pecking order?

[chris]

I can't seem to determine who's top hen in my small flock (3). They all get along fine, eat at the same time, drink same time - share treats at the same time - never have seem them fight?

Is it possible they think I'm their leader? If I'm out in the garden they won't leave my side - follow me everywhere - even if I walk around in circles.

[RichmondHens]

More likely they are following you around hoping for food ......... chickens are incredibly greedy.

[Hilary B]

The likeliest explanation is that each hen knows her place, and they are so well fed that top hen doesn't feel any need to remind the others that she should get first go at anything tasty!
It's not called pecking order for nothing, there will be an order of presidence all the way through the flock.

[Flummery]

Mine don't seem to have a boss hen or to fight either. I put it down to the fact that they are from the same hatching and were raised together. We'll see what happens on Sunday when 3 new girls add to the mix!

[Hazel at the Hill]

- even if I walk around in circles.

Bet that gave your neighbours a giggle!