Have 25 layers hens, 25 8-week-olds, 25 2-week olds, and am expecting 25 more in 6 weeks.
The 2-weeks olds were an order I canceled because it couldn't be filled earlier, and I replaced it with the chicks that are now 8 weeks old. Imagine my surprise when the p.o. called 2 weeks ago to tell me my chicks were here. I caved, even though someone at Ideal didn't remove the first order. At this point, I don't know whether to keep or sell them, but my immediate question is ...
I want to incorporate the 8-week olds into the adult flock in another month. I'm guessing that when they are outside, it won't be too much of a problem, but how badly will the older birds pick on them at 12 weeks, and does it ever get out of hand. The older hens are RIR and the younger are Black Sex Links.
I'm thinking of withholdling oyster shell for 1-2 months after incorporating them. I read that it's bad for the bones of younger birds that are not close to laying. It shouldn't hurt the older ones to not have it for a little bit.
The 2-weeks olds were an order I canceled because it couldn't be filled earlier, and I replaced it with the chicks that are now 8 weeks old. Imagine my surprise when the p.o. called 2 weeks ago to tell me my chicks were here. I caved, even though someone at Ideal didn't remove the first order. At this point, I don't know whether to keep or sell them, but my immediate question is ...
I want to incorporate the 8-week olds into the adult flock in another month. I'm guessing that when they are outside, it won't be too much of a problem, but how badly will the older birds pick on them at 12 weeks, and does it ever get out of hand. The older hens are RIR and the younger are Black Sex Links.
I'm thinking of withholdling oyster shell for 1-2 months after incorporating them. I read that it's bad for the bones of younger birds that are not close to laying. It shouldn't hurt the older ones to not have it for a little bit.
