Brooder Box or Chicken Coop

[wachicklady]

I have 11 chickens in my chicken yard with two coops, they do not roam free, only in this section of the yard. I have 4 5-week old chicks in my mudroom and would love to move them outside. My question is should I make a brooder box until the chicks are the same size as the other chickens and then integrate, or should I buy yet another chicken coop for these four.

The coops I have hold 11 in one and 4-6 in the other.

I live in Seattle with the lows now in 40's and the highs between 60-75.

 

[azygous]

Start by bringing the chicks out to the chicken yard during the day. They will need a temporary safe enclosure to keep a barrier between them and the other chickens for a few days. After around three or four days, let them mingle with the other chickens, but make small openings in their pen so they can run back to safety if they feel the need.

After you see them successfuly mingling with the other chickens, then select the coop they are to inhabit and install them early in the day after the hens have finished laying. This will let them become familiar with the coop and they won't be afraid as dark comes. Let the other chickens in to roost just as it gets dark and watch and referee if needed.

 

[wachicklady]

Thanks! A little nervous to try as they are in a dog crate, but will start today.