adding 11 chickens to an existing 18

[hilaryc]

I see quite a bit about adding a couple three hens to an existing flock, but I'm integrating a whole flock of 11 ladies to my existing flock of 18. Seems like the consensus is to put the new hens in at night. Any need to segregate the hens (other than health reasons) initially or can you free-range them together and let them sort out their 'thing' on their own? The current flock goes into their roost at night after free-ranging during the day, hoping the new group will just follow the current one. Any and all info greatly appreciated!!

 

[Judy]

There are other ways and strategies. This is a good article on integration. The first part is about quarantine, so just scroll down.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/adding-to-your-flock