Hello from CO

[Chick N Mama]

I am a proud first-time mama of a dozen chicks! Two of each: Welsummers, Buff Orpingtons, Black Wyandotte, Silver Lace Wyandotte, Amber Linked, and possibly Araucanas - maybe just Easter Eggers. ( I can't verify thru the feed store.) They are now 1,2, and 3 weeks old andcurrently live well together in a wire wrapped metal dog kennel in the basement. My husband is building a coop. While that is in mid process, my question is: The biggest girls are getting a little bit rowdy in there- fly/running and scattering pine and bossing the babies. If I segregate them in another brooder for a couple weeks, will they still all get along when joined together in the coop? Should I divide them with mixed ages to give them more room or just take the big girls out?

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, Chick N Mama, and

! Happy to have you in our flock! I think it depends on how bossy the older ones are being. If they are injuring or preventing them for eating/drinking, I'd remove the big ones until the little ones catch up in size. If it's just the occasional peck or they rush at a little one to bluff it off, it's just pecking order. If you do segregate them there will be the re-integration process - but it's usually pretty easy. Good luck to you!

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Glad you joined us!!

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[Chick N Mama]

Thanks for the advice, Redsox. The bigger ones aren't overly aggressive - pecking order is clearly established- but I know they will outgrow the brooder before the coop is finished and wasn't sure how to divide them out.
P.S.I was born and rasied in KS so I especially appreciate your reply.

 

[BrendaJ]

Hello from Oregon & welcome to BYC

 

[Chick N Mama]

Thanks for the welcome, everyone! I have already used this site more times than I can count!