A mixing the flock question...

[arlee453]

I have my silkies in the ChickNBarn/run for the moment. They are 9.5 weeks old.

Next week, if the weather isn't too bitterly cold, I want to move out my group of BRs and BO (standards) to the chicken run, hopefully by the end of the week if the weather cooperates.

My plan was to put them in with the Silkies - they are about the same size as them (they are 5 wks apart in age). Does that sound wise, or should I figure out another temporary coop for these 5 wks olds?

Also, when would it be OK to leave the silkie pen door open and let them out with the big girls? They've obviously been communicating through the fence for several weeks now, but my big girls are still HUGE compared to the silkies...

 

[herechickchick]

I just let mine go. When I have new birds ready to join the group I just let them out. They get picked on initially but it soon subsides when the pecking order is back in line. I think yours will be fine. I say the sooner you get them together the better. I have had more luck introducing young birds to young birds.

Good Luck