Adding to our flock

[kimbroe]

Hi, My husband and I are new to raising chickens. Our chicks are about 7 weeks old. They were at the point where they were in their run during the day and in the coop at night. Very happy and very social. We were gone for the day this weekend and we lost 4 of the 6 to some type of predator. Not certain what since we live on a very rural parcel of land. We would like to add to the remaining flock. Are there any suggestions on how to introduce new chicks at or about the same age? Or would it be better to get older hens. We believe we have remedied the problem to our coop and run. Thank you

 

[Den in Penn]

If you get chicks of the about same age there would be few problems. If they come from the same source they will have be exposed to the same pathogens so quarantine is not needed. Older hens from a different source quarantine would be advised. That has an added benefit in that the chicks can grow bigger while the hens are in quarantine, and be better able to hold on while the pecking order is established. When the quarantine is over move them to where they can see but not intermingle for a week or so, so they get used to each other. Then you can put them together and watch for watch for any injuries. If no blood, their good.