Easy Integration.....reality or wishful thinking?

pgpoultry

Songster
10 Years
Oct 16, 2009
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I am very fortunate in that I have never had a problem with aggression toward a new mum and her chicks. I have done many integrations, the latest of which has happened over the last two days. I am very fortunate in that I have total free ranging and this may well be the reason.

My latest momma hen hatched in our agricultural shed and her chicks are now just under 7 weeks old. Momma came back into lay a few days ago. I have been opening the shed doors for the last week or so and momma has been taking the chicks out. Two days ago half the flock came in to the shed, including 3 roos. No problems.

Today momma hen wandered right out into a group of the chooks with her babies. The big guy, Gordon, definitely NOT their father, began clucking and offering them food, whilst the others just let them feed.The chicks are the all black little guys.






If chicks don't hatch in the shed, I keep momma and chicks in a small pen where the others roam regularly, separated only by chicken wire. I then leave the door open after about a week.

Here's another pic of the chicks with part of the flock

On the topic of integration we also have dogs, cats and sheep and the whole crew have to 'get on'.

Here is a new kitten meeting up (and sharing cheese with!) a big roo.

I believe that the provision of plenty of space is the key.
 
How cute
love.gif
Seems like you have a good program, I hope mine goes as smoothly! - I think you're onto something, the more room everyone has, the less stress....
 
There's also the fact that if there's plenty of space the 'underdog' can run away from aggression if needed.
 
Absolutely, give them a place to get away and hide, if needed.... I've created a couple of "obstacles" that help break up the space....and, they make use of it too. Plus, when they're out, they pretty much have other things to keep them occupied...
 

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