A plan for flock integration

[henryholub]

I have three pullets currently that are just shy of laying age. I'm purchasing a couple of laying pullets just shy of a year old. I have built a new coop and run area. My plan is to introduce both my current chickens and the new ones to the new coop and run at the same time. Any feedback would be appreciated

 

[wren]

Sounds like a good idea. They might scuffle a little...don't worry unless they draw blood or are really relentless.

 

[comptonsgonecountry]

Don't forget to quartine your new layers.

I always integrate my newbies, after the quartine period is up, when it's dark and the others are roosting in the coop. It seems to throw everybody for a loop when they wake up in the morning. I haven't had any problems doing this and yes, they do go through the normal pecking order. I have integrated a rooster, laying hen and a pullet this way.

The pullet I hatched myself and she still thinks she is a dog seeing that she has been around humans for the first 16 weeks of life. I integrated her last weekend and she is slowly coming around to the flock. She won't follow them around yet, but will mingle with them in the barn were she hangs out during the day. Then, she waits until the flock is settled in the coop before she ventures over herself to roost.