new Pekins shaking heads

[Anonymous]

Hi, this weekend we introduced 4 new Pekins to our 4 original bantams in a large run. There hasn't been too much confrontation although they stick to their 2 seperate groups. The only thing I have noticed is that 2 of the new ones seem to be shaking their heads alot. Apart from this they look very healthy and are eating OK. Do you think this could be down to stress as all 4 seem abit shell-shocked at the moment.

 

[foxy]

Hi clarethebear, it is probably due to stress, when birds are a little anxious, they often shake their heads,a sort of twitching movement. Keep an eye on it, the shaking should naturally resolve after they settle down

 

[Anonymous]

Hi Foxy,
They do seem to be shaking their heads less now. Today they went out in the garden for the first time and they did seem to enjoy it although they stayed in the same area all day, totally different from our others who run around all the areas and really explore. maybe I'm expecting too much from them too soon. Also these Pekins who are 10 months old were never raised in a garden environment so I think they didn't have as much human contact as our others did.
I just also wanted to say that I think this forum is great as it is so good to be able to ask the advice of people who have more experience with chickens.
Claire.