Advice on moving day? New coop with new chickens

[princess araucana]

Hi, it is sooo close to being done!! I never thought it would take this long!

We have four older hens and four new 4 month olds we will mix into the new coop.

Any advice on best way/ how/ when to move everyone in together?

Won't my older girls miss their old coop?

Can't wait to show off with pictures soon!

 

[thechickenchick]

It may take them a few days to get used to it and "pick" their spots, but they will be fine. They might not lay normal for a few days. Some might adjust faster than the others.

As far as putting them together, I would just do it at a time when you can supervise for a while. At 4 months they should be big enough to hold their own.

Good luck and post pics of the new Chicken Palace when you can!!

 

[Ridgerunner]

If you have not seen it, this is a great article on how to integrate flocks.

Buff Hooligan’s Adding to your flock
https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=2593-adding-to-your-flock

I agree with Chickenchick. I'd put the young ones in a few days before I added the older hens. You are going to get pecking order issues anyway, but the older hens will be a little less territorial. It may be less vicious. I'd also consider having two separate eating and drinking stations for a few days. It may cut down on potential conflict initiaters.

 

[cmom]

Quote:
I agree!!!

 

[princess araucana]

Thanks, great article!! I need to figure out how to find those. Is there some kind of index for info pages like that? I like how there is a sticky at the top of some sections like coop building...
I love this place!

 

[Ridgerunner]

When I find an article or thread that I think is worth saving, I save the link on a word document. I need to do a better job of organizing it but it sure comes in handy.