Adding New Chicken

[Alaska_Flock]

Hey guys!

We are new to keeping chickens, my grandparents had them, but this is our first flock of our own.

We have 5 birds and my husband was offered a hen (the guy who has it had other 1 other chicken that a dog got a couple weeks ago)

I was curious what I should look for when quarenting this bird. I don't want to bring it in if it's going to be a issue with the ones we already have


Thanks in advance!

 

[Akrnaf2]

Shalom and welcome.
Read this please!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...nderestimated-part-of-raising-chickens.67097/

 

[Pork Pie]

I'd do a physical check for lice, mites, scaly leg mites and then observe the bird closely for any signs of lethargy, sneezing, discharge from the eyes / nares (nasal area of the beak). I'd also treat for worms. ETA: Better to read the link that's been posted above

Distance between the quarantined bird and your flock is an important factor, as some diseases are spread in the air. I've read here on BYC that some members suggest having at least a 150yds (could be more, I can't recall) exclusion zone is necessary for any kind of quarantine to be effective.

In your shoes, I would not introduce another bird into my flock, unless I absolutely needed an additional bird, and I would try to ensure that I knew or had confidence in the biosecurity practices of the owner of those birds. There's also an issue of ethics - some people either knowingly or innocently sell birds that are carriers of disease that can impact on your flock. It's a risk that only you can make a call on.

Good luck