Combining two groups of chickens - I can't take the stress!!!

[Junibutt]

I read in the book, "Chickens, Mules, and Two Old Fools," that the best way is to put the extras in the hutch at night, cuddled up to the other chickens. In the morning, they are regarded as having been there the whole time. It's worth a try.

What if you have already messed up by introducing them to each other during the day. Does that trick still work?

 

[Mary Jo]

I wondered the same thing. You won't know unless you try it.... Then you can let us know if it works. Maybe try putting a YOUNG hen in with the old ones one night, & see if it works.

 

[fiefs20]

What if you have already messed up by introducing them to each other during the day. Does that trick still work?

I've done it and it still works. I made the mistake of introducing a hen too soon during the day and she got attacked. So I waited a few days and snuck her in at night and she integrated right into my flock with no problems.

 

[bopup]

Do you really need that rooster?