2 flocks, integrating chicks into one of them, in process.

[C Siena]

We have 2 flocks/2 coops and everyone free ranges daily. Flock 1 is 1 roo and 9 hens ages 11 months to 22 months. #2 is 1 roo and 8 hens, 11 months. Everyone gets along for the most part. Oldest roo (almost 2) does not want the other roo/cockerel too close sometimes.

We have 6 pullets, 6 weeks old today, that have been in #2 coop (8'x8'x9'), in a cage for 11 days. The chicks have been exploring the coop alone and then the run with clutter today (pics below). I want to integrate them but should I only allow a few of the 8, 11 month hens, into the run to see how it goes? We have 2 CQ and 1 EE who are calm and not at the top of the pecking order. Also a RIR who is sweet and non aggressive. 2 BR who I have not seen peck another. These are my options. There are 2 Blk Stars, but I think they would not be good for the first meeting. None of either coop seem very interested, except 2 ISAs, did a couple of pecks to the cage.

After the 6 pullets are integrated, I will be moving the 15, 2+ week old chicks into the large cage in the coop. Don't ask me how I did 2 young groups this close, not thinking.
Any advice is Greatly appreciated.

 

[Mrs. K]

You might do that, only part of the older flock.

A pallet laid flat up on a bricks is a great escape for chicks, it can be approached from all sides. That might help.

 

[C Siena]

You might do that, only part of the older flock.

A pallet laid flat up on a bricks is a great escape for chicks, it can be approached from all sides. That might help.

Thank you, we have a pallet.
I'll have to use treats to get the 4 hens back inside. Also have to wait until they finish laying about 2.
I'll have a water squirt bottle just in case.

 

[C Siena]

You might do that, only part of the older flock.

A pallet laid flat up on a bricks is a great escape for chicks, it can be approached from all sides. That might help.

Do you think it would be better to allow all 7 hens/1 roo? (11 months) to be with the pullets? If I did it all day, I would have to keep them in the coop/run.