Could I add Silkies to my flock or should I wait?

[JessicaThistle]

I have eight 7 week old chicks that moved to the coop when they were five weeks old. I have 4 BOs, 2 BR and 2 EEs - all hens.

I saw 3 adorable white Silkies at the feed store today in the straight run bin. I know they could all be roos but I don't currently have any. If I was going to add Silkies, would it be better to get them now and integrate them in while my chicks are still young or wait until next year after my hens are established?

I appreciate any opinions or advice!

 

[Mamabrinkles]

Now is as good of time as any, just make sure you wait until they are strong and integrate them properly. Silkies are docile and special looking, so without doing it right, you could be asking for trouble. The chicken chick has a great article on integrating new members, even at their young age they already have a delicate pecking order.

 

[JessicaThistle]

Now is as good of time as any, just make sure you wait until they are strong and integrate them properly. Silkies are docile and special looking, so without doing it right, you could be asking for trouble. The chicken chick has a great article on integrating new members, even at their young age they already have a delicate pecking order.

Thank you! I think my biggest question is would they be easier to integrate with my young chicks or established hens as far as the older hens tolerating them? Are young chicks more tolerant than older hens?

 

[Mamabrinkles]

You have relatively docile breeds but it is hard to say that there won't be problems with the age difference. If you want silkies to have their best shot, wait until one of your girls is old enough and goes broody and get some silkie eggs. Now on the other hand I know those three silkies are calling your name...you gotta do what you gotta do. Just take it very slow and don't integrate until you are sure they are ready