Hello Everyone, I am new to BYC looking forward to learning as much as I can.

[anzachickenmom]

Hi, I am new to raising chickens and am looking forward to learning as much as I can absorb

I have 8 babies that are 10 weeks old today. I should mention that I will most likely be asking allot of questions. The question on the top of my list is I am concerned about the 2 roosters that I have. How old should my babies be before I let the roosters near them? I built a separate area in the coop to keep the babies in during the day. The boys are in the same coop but can't get to them. I should mention that my boys are nearly a year old, and have not been around other hens yet. (That is a whole other story in itself ) Needless to say they are very interested in the chicks. Will appreciate any and all responses. Thank you, Anzachickenmom

 

[polishserb]

I've heard that when they are about the same size then you can put them together. Also need to make sure that they can see each other but not come into contact for about a week or two. I've also heard that you should put them together at night when they are less active.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, anzahickenmom, and

! Pleased you joined us! That's a great question - I know how to intro pullets to established hens, but not pullets to roosters. There may be additional concerns when it's roosters inten on breeding. You might post in the link below for more advice. Good luck to you!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/2/managing-your-flock

 

[anzachickenmom]

Thank you for welcoming me. Also thank you for the info link. Hopefully it will have some answers to my concerns. This has been a learning process for me since the day I brought the babies home. I just adore them and want to keep them as safe as possible. Thanks again.

 

[MtnFamilyFarm]

My husband grew up raising chickens (among other farm animals), but this is new for me! Looking forward to your questions and learning right along with you! Welcome to BYC - from one newbie to another!

Amanda

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! Glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

roosters can do a lot of damage or worse to grown hens, if they overbreed them. One rooster to 8-10 hens is probably wise. With young chicks, I think they would end up killing them.

And when girls enter the picture the roosters will be fighting among themselves. Unless you want to hatch or sell 'fertile" eggs you don't really need the roostes.

 

[anzachickenmom]

Thank you for your response. I will keep the young chicks separate from the roosters for a few more months . I do plan to keep the 2 boys around, I am sure they will be very protective of the chicks once I let them loose in the yard during the day. Already lost a rooster to a coyote a month ago. The 2 left are very alert. Yes, I am interested in having fertile eggs. Thanks again

 

[anzachickenmom]

Thank you