Adding to my flock!

[3littlechickies]

Hi!

So this summer I'm planning to get two more chicks. I have three hens now (a Buff Orpington, Barred Rock, and an Easter Egger). I know a little about adding new flock members. I've seen people say different things about what age to start introducing them. What age do you think is good? And just any other tips/advice you have would be great! Thank you!

 

[Mrs. K]

well, if you got very lucky, and your BO went broody (that is what I am praying for right now!) After she is broody about 2-3 weeks you could slip day old chicks under her, and that would be that. They would grow up in the flock, and there are no introduction issues. It really is the best way...... in fact after you have done it that way, the way is a whole lot of work and mess.

But if you don't get lucky, well then you need to raise those babies until they are nearly full grown, or you risk them being killed. Chickens are not nice, even mild mannered chickens are really mean to a stranger, especially one that is smaller than them.

Mrs K