we had a lovely OEPF cockeral once, then after a year got 20 ex-laying hens, all completely free range, but they picked on him severely and wud make him cry. he use to hide under the car all day so we sadly rehomed him in the end. if he needs protection u cud put him in a large crate during day so they could see him but not hurt him for a week or so, and put him in with them at night when its dark. goodluck. try anti-pecking spray cos that really works, got it in my mouth by accident once, absolutely foul, (excuse the pun) il find out brand name cos def worth it, once hens taste the blood, theyl keep pecking, good luck