Read on BYC about putting different age chicks together. I have 10 Barred Rock pullets at 8 1/2 weeks and 14 other (different breeds) at 3 1/2-4 1/2 weeks. I have taken them out to the run a few times recently. They were fast outgrowing their brooder. So I took them out mid day today and they were in the run with the big girls all day. I think they did well. Some of the older ones would intermittently chase them back into their corner but no injuries or casualties. Then after the big girls got on their roost, my daughter caught the little ones and tossed them in the pop door where I was waiting to make sure they could find there way around and to be sure the older ones didn't give them any trouble. They were chirpy for a bit but have settled down now in a pile in the wall instead of under the platform I made so that they would feel safe and cozy. Well at least they can hide under it in the morning if they all wake up before I do and the older ones are not in a good mood.
So everything is looking good so far. Hope it continues. A few of the little guys are a bit impertinent or maybe just not smart. We'll see if everyone survives while we're gone to church tomorrow. I was pretty worried about there size and age difference. Time will tell.
So everything is looking good so far. Hope it continues. A few of the little guys are a bit impertinent or maybe just not smart. We'll see if everyone survives while we're gone to church tomorrow. I was pretty worried about there size and age difference. Time will tell.
