Adding a new chicken to current flock

[Jhbear]

I currently have three hens, they have been together for a few months now, I wanted to add a fourth this weekend not sure if there are any precautions I should take when adding a new hen.

 

[americanvalkyrie]

They will gang up on her, but they'll eventually work it out. If you don't give them enough space, it could get bloody. But there's no avoiding the pecking order. Just make sure there's somewhere that she can get away when she needs a break.

 

[sumi]

Hello and welcome to BYC

Glad you joined us!

 

[mkcolls]

from Ohio!

Make sure the newbie spends a month in quarantine before adding her in. I know that this sounds like a long time, but it is worth the time not to lose your flock to an illness.

Then if possible give them time through a fence to get used to her, finally introducing her with the others at night after they are on roost, place her in a lower position or away from the others. There will still be pecking to remind her where they think she is in the pecking order, but they should figure it out. Keep watch.

 

[Jhbear]

Wow, a month in quarantine. Thanks so much everyone's help. I was under the impression you buy a new chicken , throw her with the other ones and hope for the best. Guess I have a lot to learn, Thanks again

 

[weimarmama]

&

from Alabama. Glad you joined us.

 

[4-H chicken mom]

Hi and from Ohio. So glad to have you aboard.

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

Certainly at least 2 weeks of quarenteen would be prudent. Then pen her by or inside your pen or coop for a few days before adding her to your group.

 

[Kevin565]