I need ideas on how to get my 8 mo old hens to accept the new chicks. I've let them mingle and the big hen goes after them. At first I thought it was due to the feed, so I tried letting the babies out when I wasn't feeding them.
My worry is since there are 2 older (8 mos) and 2 babies (4 weeks) that they may not mix into the little flock I was hoping for. The run is 10×20 and the main house holds up to 6 chickens. My goal is to have them integrated by winter when they'll need to stay warm, and can sleep in the house together.
If I give enough places for the babies to hide, will the big hens eventually quit attacking them? Should I buy another grown hen as a buffer/distraction/possible protector?
I had 3 to start, but 1 was rooster & was rehomed. Was hoping adding the new girls would make a nice flock, so when 1 is laying, the other hen has some pals to scratch around with since the rooster is gone.
The set up is a separated area & house within the big run. Breeds are Light Brahma & Golden Wyandotte chicks.
My worry is since there are 2 older (8 mos) and 2 babies (4 weeks) that they may not mix into the little flock I was hoping for. The run is 10×20 and the main house holds up to 6 chickens. My goal is to have them integrated by winter when they'll need to stay warm, and can sleep in the house together.
If I give enough places for the babies to hide, will the big hens eventually quit attacking them? Should I buy another grown hen as a buffer/distraction/possible protector?
I had 3 to start, but 1 was rooster & was rehomed. Was hoping adding the new girls would make a nice flock, so when 1 is laying, the other hen has some pals to scratch around with since the rooster is gone.
The set up is a separated area & house within the big run. Breeds are Light Brahma & Golden Wyandotte chicks.


