combining pullets with hens

[lisa32265]

hey y'all,
I have 3 3 year old black australorps. I want to buy 6 more chicks in spring and I was wondering if 8 weeks is about the right time I attempt integration. I know I have to allow protected access to the chicks, blocking off half my run, during the day and a separate space at night. I was just wondering if bringing them together at about 8 weeks and doing it at night would be the best way to go.
Thanks in advance.

 

[nchls school]

I think your plan is good. Just watch them carefully to begin with.

 

[lisa32265]

I think your plan is good. Just watch them carefully to begin with.

thank you.

 

[Mrs. K]

Last two years, I have done it much earlier with much less drama. I put them in the run with a shelter and one way gates. Which means the chicks can run through them like water and the chickens cannot. Last year I used lattice paneling to section off an area.

The first few days, the chickens were curious, but the chicks stayed pretty close to the zone. When we first put them in, my granddaughters would give them a little chase if they cam out. The rapidly figured out that this was a safe place to be.

The chicks naturally put them selves to bed in the dog crate at dark, I shut its gate and carried the whole thing to the coop at night, and out the next day.

The little chicks are not as much of a threat as older birds, and your flock gets used to them quickly. Within 10 days, they were out and about and I took the panels down.

However:

• I have a large run
• I frequently add birds
• I have numerous hide outs, roosting areas,
• multiple feeders and water spots

Mrs K

 

[rosemarythyme]

If you have ample space (and if you're not sure, post your specifics and/or a photo of set up) then you can integrate them well before 8 weeks so the chicks grow up as part of the flock. This is my brooder set up with integration info and pointers about adding obstacles.

 

[aart]

I've found integrating them younger is much easier, but takes some set up efforts.
Here's how I do it...scroll down for links to some simpler solutions.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/integrating-new-birds-at-4-weeks-old.72603/