Adding to the flock

[torsinadoc]

I know this has been asked a few times. We had two Black Australorps (10 months old). One was killed the other day. My current chicken is trying to create a pecking order with my dogs. I assume because she needs a buddy. I have found another approx 1 year old hen to add (cream legbar). I have one coop. They have the run of the backyard. Should I get a separate coop for the new chicken and fence off the yard to separate them then mix them after a few weeks? Should I let the current chicken free range and keep the other in the coop and run (I never close the run door).

 

[Odelia]

Most likely they will be fine together. If you have an issue separate them later. It will take a little while for them to work out a new pecking order. It isn't usually a good idea to add a single bird, but as you only have one at home they should be able to work things out just fine.