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Perhaps a dumb question: why can't the pullets go in with the hens yet?
Anne.
Until the younger ones are the same size as the bigger ones, they'll get picked on way too much. If the run was larger, maybe it wouldn't be such an issue. The whole "establishing a pecking order" can be quite cruel if not done at the appropriate time. Now, I've never had to integrate two flocks before, so I'm just going off of my own research. Everything I have read thus far recommends to wait until the yonger ones are the same size as the older. I tried putting them all together the other day. The Buff Orpington hen didn't pay any attention to the 4 younger ones, but my Production Red was on the hunt. She was downright mean, grabbing them by the feathers on their necks and pulling out tail feathers. She just wouldn't leave them alone. Even when they all free range together she will chase them a bit, but there's so many places they can go, she doesn't persue them. I think it would be easier to start your flock all at the same age. See what the other, more experienced chicken people have to say! I know I'm ready to move the 4 young ones off my patio!