Can we just introduce the chicks?

[YoYofranko]

We have two lots of 5 unsexed chicks. One set are 6 weeks and left there mother a week ago. The others are 5 weeks and still with broody. We think broody's ready to leave them as she's started laying again and started pulling her feathers out around her neck, as if she's stressed, athough she isn't pecking them like the other was when we split them. Is it as simple as shoving all the chicks in together? Is there likely to be any problems? the first lot are abit bigger then the others. This is our first time hatching chicks. Thanks

 

[Frost Homestead]

I wouldn't think there wouldn't be too much of an issue if you just stick all the chicks in together. Even if there is a little size difference, if need be the little ones can always run away if picked on. I never had much of a problem introducing chicks to each other, although they do form their own little cliques based on the groups they were raised in. Just look for pecking and make sure none of them are getting abused too bad.

 

[Judy]

Lots of space and some hiding places can make all the difference.