Adding to the flock- questions

[amgreen1980]

I currently have 3 chickens, a barred rock roo, a rir hen and a cochin banty. They are about 15 weeks old. I am buying 4 hens about the same age from a friend. I do not plan to quarantine them, one because it would be quite difficult and 2, I know that her birds are healthy and well taken care of. Of course I will check them for mites/lice before I take them home. What is the best way to join the 2 flocks. My chickens live in an 8x8 coop and free range always. We do not have a run, but we could put something up temporarily if needed.

Do I need to separate them when they sleep for a period of time? Keep the new chicks locked up a few days? I am totally new to chickens in general, especially this aspect! Thanks for your help!

 

[kidcody]

What I do is place the new chickens in a wire dog crate (big) for 3 to 4 days and place them in the coop with the other chickens. After that I let them loose and it has worked for me every time

 

[Elphaba2140]

Here is a good thread to read. I highly recommend you quarantine them. Yes it may be difficult but it is the right thing to do.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=12751

 

[Jitters]

I ar 3 also have some questions about adding to my flock. I've lost 2 in recent months to prediators, the chickens want to free roan. Weve deceided to make a very large and high run around a small group of trees on the property. I've and read it was best to add new ones. I've read and been told to only bring news hens in the middle of the night. Does anyone ptactice this. Does anyone around No Granby CT have 1 or 2 hems for sale about 20 to 21 weeks? My granddaughter is gone on vacation, and this last lost was both our favorite...we are so sad...\\Jitters

 

[real_redhead]

Same here I am trying to introduce 1 new girl (since I had to rehome my rooster). During the day I put her in a large dog crate beside the run with my 4 girls (done this for a few days) They threw a fit cackling and all. I took the new girl (Millie) in for the night as the run and dog crate wouldn't be predator proof. Today I left Millie in the run/coop while the girls free ranged. Tonight I put Millie in a cat carrier in the coop with the 4 girls, no fussing. I am afraid to go out in the middle of the night and let Millie out of the carrier incase they go crazy. Do you think it will be ok to let them all out together in the morning or should I seperate them for a few more days.