Adding 2 new chicks to a flock?

[dodgewoman]

What are the steps to make sure they are accepted? We are thinking about getting 2 Welsummers to add to our flock and possibly more over time. We currently have 12 chicks mixed breeds and probably one roo. Would like to know the process b/f we even decide if we are taking more in or not.

 

[Judy]

Depends on age and their personalities. You should be able to mix them freely until all are a month old. After that, you may have problems if you don't let them grow to full size before mixing them. It's good to have them penned next to each other before trying it, after a month of age.

 

[azygous]

Please consider getting four instead of two. I've discovered over the years of adding chicks, that units of four do so very much better at merging with the flock and holding their own against bullies than do unit of two or even three. They just seem to develop more self confidence when they are four or more, and this lasts a lifetime.

 

[dodgewoman]

If getting 4 new ones makes it easier than that is what we would do for sure! The more the merrier

So, letting the new ones get to full size and then trying to mix them it would work? I didn't know if there was certain steps to take along the way or not.