Got a new hen!

[millerchix]

Since we had to find a new home for our rooster we did locate a buff orpington hen about the same age as the other hens. We brought her home yesterday, but she is still frightened. What can we do for her? What is the best way to introduce a new hen to the flock?

 

[memechick]

Hi ........... I have the same exact problem and was hoping someone was going to answer your question ........ I've been watching for responses. I have four 13 week old pullets ...... I've had them for about a month ........ last week I brought home a 9 week old. I have her separated from the others but they saw her though the fencing and I thought they were going through a feeding frenzy trying to get to her. Scary ,,,,,,, I do believe they would have hurt her. I still have her separated from the others because I was told that they should be isolated for a few weeks to make sure there are no illlnesses that can be spread to the others but I have a great fear of introducing her to the flock of four others because she is very docile and friendly ....... they will definately dominate her. I am starting to think that maybe I need a separate coop for her ...... I don't want her to get beat up in the coop at night. That will mean that I will need to get her some company because its not good to have one bird alone ..... maybe get another pullet or two to keep her company. Hmmm. Is that normal to have multiple coops in the yard. Or am I being to sensitive and they'll be fine together once introduced.

 

[Den in Penn]

House them next to each other for about a week. then let them mingle while supervised, if after a few sessions with only minor disputes then you put them together.

 

[morsekathan]

There is a long article about introducing new hens. https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/adding-to-your-flock
I, of course, didn't follow it as I read it after I introduced my new hens and everything was ok. But I think it's good advice. All my hens just get along with the new ones but they free range in a large area. I do keep them in their enclosure (25' x 50') for the first couple of days so they figure out that they should go into the coop at night. I had to take the new ones out of the trees before I figure that out. Cute, but.....

 

[morsekathan]

My "docile and friendly" new hen is the top of the pecking order. I think she's the most friendly because she isn't scared of anything! It took her a while to put "Ms Bossy Pants" in her place, but she did and Ms. Bossy Pants is a lot easier to live with. All the ladies are grateful for that!

 

[speckledhen]

Rule #1 Quarantine for 4-6 weeks out of the air space of the flock to be sure (as you can be) that she isn't a disease carrier, doesn't have lice/mites or worms.


After that, let them see each other without being able to get to each other. Let them meet out in the yard with food as a bonding experience.