Group housing questions

[Susan Skylark]

So I’m moving 3 pens of breeding birds (1 male and 4-5 females each) to a group housing arrangement with twice the floor space, deep litter bedding, and hiding places and have a few questions for those with experience.

1. Finding eggs: daily Easter egg hunt? Any tips on finding?
2. Fertility: do you see a drop in fertility rates vs small pens? Can timid hens hide from the boys more easily?
3. Aggression: any issues with competitive males?

Thanks!

 

[Nabiki]

Finding the eggs will be fun. You'll have to dig a bit through the bedding since they sometimes bury the eggs.

I have not seen any drop in fertility, and I keep about 12 birds in a 20 square foot pen.

You do need to watch the males to make sure they're compatible. The more hiding places you have, the better the chance that they will get along.

 

[Susan Skylark]

I’ve seen a few hens chasing or pecking at others but the attacked bird can go hide while aggressor cools off, this extra space thing is awesome! I only have one old male who is getting replaced and a couple 5 week old roosters at the moment so the boys aren’t even an issue right now. Thanks!