Marigold the Misfortunate

Marigold has not been her best as of late. She has not only broken her beak twice in the time we've had her, but recently she tore off a nail. We mainly blame it on her low rank and dramatic reactions to pecks and discipline from her flock mates above her in the pecking order. She squawks and runs around crazily, which we suspect is one of Betty's reasons to try and often single out Marigold. It could be possible that it annoys her or she finds it entertaining. Betty could even see it as a sign of weakness, only driving her to attack Marigold with more ferocity.

Marigold with her pink shoes on.

When she came up to me almost as if she was trying to show me her toe, my mom and I restrained her and washed her up. We put chicken shoes that were far too big for her on her feet to keep the bandage clean. However, we also suspect that these brought more beatings upon her, either out of fear or jealousy. We eventually put Betty in shoes to see if anything would change, but the beatings didn't slow down until Marigold got her shoes taken off.

During these turbulent times Marigold along with her closest friend Millicent were closed up separately during the day when the flock was locked in their run. A small coop within a larger run expansion served as a place to be protected, although it also served as a jail when needed. They were given separate food and water, away from the main flock. This treatment lasted almost two weeks, until her nail was healed enough to not require a bandage.

Despite the bullying, it is partly enjoyable when Marigold hurts herself. During the time she is injured she becomes very tame and is easy to sit with and pet, unlike when she is healthy and flighty.