chicks or younger pullets?

[bonebrake]

Hey all. I have a small flock of four 5-month old hens who recently started laying. But, I'd like to add one...maybe two more to the flock.

I'd prefer not to go through the brooding phase again and have a lead on some 12-week olds for sale. I'm a bit concerned about the existing flock not welcoming a newcomer...also the potential for disease.

So here's my question to you:

Is it best to introduce a new younger bird to an existing flock or to go with chicks? Does it make the integration easier with two older birds?

Any help is apprecaited.

Jay

 

[Mahonri]

You can get the 12 week olds, but isolate them and wait about 5 to 6 weeks before introducing them to the other hens.

 

[bonebrake]

What's the main intent for isolating them? Disease? Should they be placed in the same general area where they can see each other?

 

[CityClucks]

Mahroni knows best. I think the older ones are the better choice, and isolating them from the ones you have already is to make sure they don't introduce disease to your existing flock. 30 days apart, and not where they share the same air. So as far away as you can get them and not necessarily where they can see each other.

 

[lalaland]

after quarantine (and if you aren't convinced of the need for this, just try searching on this site for "quarantine" and you will come across enough sad stories to make you a believer) is when you put the new hens side by side, separated by wire fencing, for a couple of weeks - so they can see each other but not hurt each other.

When you are ready to introduce the newcomers to your flock, just search here and you will find reams of info on how to integrate two flocks!

 

[bonebrake]

Thanks. So it sounds like it doesn't really matter if go with one or two. Same amount of work, right?

Thanks everyone!

 

[Layin Eggs]

I would definitely add at least 2 so the new ones with have company/buddy especially during quarantine

 

[bonebrake]

Thanks. That's kind of what I was thinking as well.

One last question - should the new hens be completely confined or can they free range?

Thanks again.

 

[barred-rocks-rock]

isolate the 12 week olds for about a month. just make sure you dont introduce two roosters

 

[bonebrake]

Sage advice, thanks. Hoping these aren't roos!