Adding chicks

[Sally Winter-Swink]

A dog attack left me with only two Rhode Island Red hens left. Six weeks after the attack they have still not begun laying again, but I expect that they will. I'm thinking of adding some chicks when warmer weather comes (probably April). Will my hens attack chicks brought in? I'll keep them separated until the chicks are feathered out, but don't want them pecked and harassed by the two older hens. What experience have other members had?

 

[sourland]

It is normal for established birds to pick on smaller/newer birds. There are many threads on 'Flock Integration'. Given enough time and space it can be accomplished. Good luck.

 

[Mtnboomer]

I have to integrate new birds very often throughout the year. Best thing to do that I have found is to wait until the chicks are 2/3 size of the adults. This will allow them to take a little squabbling over pecking order.
Leading up to that point, allow the birds to be seen, heard by the adult birds and to feed near them while being segregated and kept safe. This can be done with temporary fencing, wire dog kennels, etc. Do this for as much time possible but I have had success in as little as 36-48 hrs.

Even so, expect a little squabbling, but its usually short lived and over in less than an hour