Hi all! I am new to the whole chicken raising, I just picked up my first pullets today! My flock consists of a Buff Orpington, RIR, Americana, and a Barred Rock. The guy I got my pullets from recommended that I keep my pullets cooped for 4-6 weeks. That seems incredibly long to me! They have a fenced run and access to the coop from the run. Should I wait the 4-6 weeks and leave them strictly in the coop or leave them in the coop for a few days and then let them out into the pen? I understand that since they are younger birds they are more susceptible to illnesses and moisture changes. I am feeding them a grower feed, grit, and water with a citric acid supplement (seller recommended for stressful times?) Just looking for some feedback and guidance from the more experienced chicken keepers! Thank you!
Nah, just leave them in the coop for 3 or 4 days and nights, then release into the run until they consistently go back into coop to roost at night, then you can let them free range if you want, starting with short stints an hour or so before sunset. Not sure about the citrus acid supplement....especially considering his other 'bad' advice.
