I read through the threads about adding a new member to the flock. I have five 12 week old buff orpingtons in a rather large coop with an additional 25x30 run. There is a very sweet hen at the local shelter and I was wondering if it would be easier to add an older bird to a young crowd vs the other way around. Space is definitely not an issue. Anyone have any thoughts on this? I would welcome the advice, as I really don't want to upset the flock..happy critters, but would like to adopt the hen.Thank you in advance.
Adding one adult to an established younger flock is generally one of the easier integration situations. There will be some disruption as chickens hate change, and the pecking order 'is what it is'. It all depends on the temperment of the adult hen. My only concern is that she may have been given up because she is a strong dominant hen. I'd be tempted to give it a try.
Thank you. Speaking of pecking order..at what age does this usually show up, as I watch them..lol probably too much and I don't see any dominate behavior as of yet...they all just walk around together. The only thing they squabble about is a particular patch of moss that seems to be the "it" spot to peck and scratch.