Introducing a hen to my 4 week old chicks

Date sort Score sort
mamaHenof8

mamaHenof8

In the Brooder
Apr 22, 2017
27
1
16
Arkansas
We acquired a hen of laying age, no idea how old though. My chicks are 4 weeks old , I need suggestions on how to introduce them so that she doesn't harm my babies. The new hen seems quite docile, she is a Bravo Brown. My chicks are 6 Austrolorp,1 dom and 1 Welsummer
Thank you in advance
 
Usually, when you just have one or two adult hens you're introducing to chicks, especially when the chicks outnumber the hens, you should see little to no conflict.

However, I'm one to take precautions before a tragedy occurs. I came up with a concept I call the panic room. It's a special space with barriers so the chicks can find refuge inside where the hens can't follow. Food and water are placed inside so the chicks can eat and drink in peace and safety. Small chick size openings around 5 x 7 inches make it possible for the chicks to use this panic room until they're around 10 weeks old. It's crucial that you provide more than one entrance in case a hen blocks one.

Chicks learn to use the panic room in record time and then they're teasing and taunting the adults in high sport. Fun to watch.
 

Similar threads

B
    • Like
Introducing Chicks to aggressive flock
Replies
5
Views
1K
Lpsouth1978
L
C
Hens weaned chickens once rooster was introduced again into the same pen
Replies
1
Views
629
WhiteCollarWeezy
WhiteCollarWeezy
jus10inla
    • Like
Integrating few day old chicks to week old broody mommas?
Replies
5
Views
841
oldhenlikesdogs
oldhenlikesdogs
T
    • Like
Introducing 5 day old chicks to only chicken
Replies
3
Views
331
Allsfairinloveandbugs
Allsfairinloveandbugs
Granny Fixit
    • Like
Midget chicken?
Replies
1
Views
694
NatJ
NatJ

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom