Have I ruined my chick's life?

[Kriscam]

I can only have four hens in our city limit. I was able to get three I wanted last week, and the fourth today. I hadn't taken into account the size difference in just one week! The week-olds haven't been aggressive toward the baby and seem a bit afraid of her. She will keep up with the others when she's awake, but they sleep in a pile and she sleeps by herself. Will she be OK being the only little, and will the older chicks eventually let her join the clique or have I ruined her little life?

 

[rosemarythyme]

Glad you kept an eye on her to make sure there weren't issues due to her size. And no, you haven't ruined her life. Since she's new and younger, it'll take her a few days to get with the schedule and adjust to being with the others.

 

[Kriscam]

Glad you kept an eye on her to make sure there weren't issues due to her size. And no, you haven't ruined her life. Since she's new and younger, it'll take her a few days to get with the schedule and adjust to being with the others.

Thank you so much for your reply! I know I'm anthropomorphizing (and she's had a big day) but she looks so forlorn sleeping all by herself. I'll continue to keep a close eye and hope they all adjust soon. Thanks again.

 

[NorthEastGameBirds]

Give it a week see where you are at, I reckon all will be dandy.

 

[CNJ]

If the other three don't peck the new chick, it will be okay. It will follow them around when it can.

 

[Kriscam]

Thanks everyone. Day two the baby has stopped distress peeping and is keeping up with the others much better. The week-olds are getting used to her and letting her sleep near them. Fingers crossed that this will work.