can silkies be added to a flock of standards?

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I have two silkies in a mixed flock of 19…I have very carefully integrated 15 new chickens to my original flock of 4, 2 which were the silkies. I think the above posters are right that it will be tougher to add them to an existing flock of 12, unless you are adding like 6 of them so they have safety in numbers. I would also wait until they are pretty full grown before any attempts at integrating. My younger pullets actually are put in their place by both silkies even though they’re way bigger :-D You can see from the pictures the size differences :) I also chose breeds that are really mellow and easy going so none of them really bully…at least not yet. 😁
 

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kkgall said:
would you consider 12 a large flock?
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It's not the size of the flock but the size of the bird to which Sour was referring.
When raised together from chicks, Silkies/Polish and large fowl breeds of chickens can get along. Trying to introduce Silkies/Polish to an established flock of large fowl breed chickens oftentimes does not work out at all.
 
Welcome to BYC. I am sorry for your loss.
The ideal way to add any new birds is by having a hen from the established flock hatch and/or raise them. If you don't have a broody, you'd need to raise them in a brooder within your coop or run. It has always worked out for me. However, it depends on the personalities of the existing flock. I've been told, that silkies, are more vulnerable due to their vaulted skulls.
It is ultimately, a decision you will need to make, based on how stressful it will be for you, and your flock, as well as any new chickens, that you add.
Good luck, whatever you decide. Please keep us in the loop. One of the greatest things about BYC, is that we can all learn from the experience of others.
 
:welcome :frowSo sorry for your loss. I have never raised Silkies or any other bantams. I think when adding a new bird to any flock can be challenging but adding a few more birds may work out better as you mentioned in your post it appears you want to add a few new birds, Silkies. The existing birds may not accept newcomers. There is always the pecking order. You can try but be ready to intervene if need be. You will find a lot of good information here BYCArticles.jpg Good luck with your birds and have fun...
 

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