At 4 weeks old our chicks have started establishing their pecking order. Rooroo’s little Red sister is pretty timid and I haven’t seen her in any dominance disputes, but L, the lovely Lavender Orpington, and Rooroo, the suspected rooster Red have been seen chest butting these past few days.
Baby L sleepy from her bloody battle(s) with Rooroo
Today, however, Scott saw L and Rooroo really going at it. Feathers flying, trance-like moments, and, finally, blood. When I got home L’s ear was a bloody mess; her face swollen and blotchy, her actual ear raw and bloody. She let me hold her and slept in my hand. I put neosporin on her ear and put her by herself in the broody box with food, water, and fresh bedding. But she is not happy. Quite distressed at being alone, I am not sure what to try next. I could isolate the aggressive Rooroo instead, but I am also worried that the other chickens will peck at her bloody ear.
Suggestions?
Sustainable Scientist 
Oh Jen! How distressing for you! Will ask Dad to give advice if he has any suggestions…
You are right about the other birds – they will like take a shot at her. They usually victimize a victim. As I recall many of the breeders clip the end of the break of the aggressive birds, You might “sand” it down a bit to see if that will help. From, your description, however, your wounded female stepped up to the plate and toughed it out with him. HOwever, she does look a bit the worse for wear.
Thanks Papa. Luckily, no one bothered with her and now she looks all better. Thank nature for her fast metabolism!