Can I add silkies in my flock

[you-da-chick]

I have 8 adult barred rocks, and I've always wanted a pair of silkies. I don't have any silkies, because I want to be extra sure about my question. Would it be dangerous to introduce a couple of silkies to my flock? With silkies being smaller, and looking very different from my barred rocks, I'm worried that they will be picked on.

 

[Blackberry18]

I have 8 adult barred rocks, and I've always wanted a pair of silkies. I don't have any silkies, because I want to be extra sure about my question. Would it be dangerous to introduce a couple of silkies to my flock? With silkies being smaller, and looking very different from my barred rocks, I'm worried that they will be picked on.

Great questions! Size sometimes matters, sometimes doesn't. I have a flock of 5 Barred Rocks, and 2 Sex-Links (Red and Black), and I was worried about moving in my Leghorns because they're smaller. However, it was a great transition, almost immediate, so I think you'll be fine, though if you have any cocks, there could be trouble with dominance.

To mix, put new chickens in a separate, yet adjacent pen from the others, ensuring they can still see each other. Make sure the top is covered so they can't get in or out. After a few weeks, or until they get used to each other, you can try having them together. If the reaction is too aggressive, then try again later.

I'm not sure if it might be different because of the number difference, but PLEASE tell me how it turns out, because I may be adopting a couple of pullets, and am worried a little about my 13 vs. 2.

 

[you-da-chick]

Great questions! Size sometimes matters, sometimes doesn't. I have a flock of 5 Barred Rocks, and 2 Sex-Links (Red and Black), and I was worried about moving in my Leghorns because they're smaller. However, it was a great transition, almost immediate, so I think you'll be fine, though if you have any cocks, there could be trouble with dominance.

To mix, put new chickens in a separate, yet adjacent pen from the others, ensuring they can still see each other. Make sure the top is covered so they can't get in or out. After a few weeks, or until they get used to each other, you can try having them together. If the reaction is too aggressive, then try again later.

I'm not sure if it might be different because of the number difference, but PLEASE tell me how it turns out, because I may be adopting a couple of pullets, and am worried a little about my 13 vs. 2.

That's good to hear about your experience on moving chickens. I am not entirely sure if we will ever will get silkies, and when. maybe next spring. But If I ever do, I plan on making a long transition. I will probably put a cage inside the coop with protection on the top.