I added 4 hens to my existing 4 hen flock a week ago. I understand about pecking order and hierarchy, but the old hens won't let the new hens in the chicken house at all! It is getting into single digits here weather wise, and I don't know whether to let nature take its course or to put them all in the house (which is where the heat lamp and water is) and lock them up! Please, I need advice from chicken pros!! Thank you!
It will take awhile for the new hens to find their place. The older girls are going to be aggressive and harsh for awhile. This is what I do. Wait until the girls on on roost and take the newer girls one at a time and place them on roost with the older girls. This way works for many. Do this evey night until they are all comfortable with each other.
