Hens' reaction to 8 week old chicks

[Tamma]

I have 3 red sex link that are a little over a year old. I raised 4 polish babies from day-olds and they are now 8 weeks old. 8 days ago, I moved the chicksb outside to a little prefab coop about 15 feet from the main coop. My girls are very interested in the chicks. Of course, when I have anything to do with the chicks, I have hens that have to be given treats. Well, the 3 hens have now built dust-bowls (1 each) less than 1 foot from the little chicks. Has anyone seen this behavior before and what did it lead to? I am so hoping I won't have problems integrating them. Thanks for any help.

 

[ChickenBoy2013]

I have 3 red sex link that are a little over a year old.  I raised 4 polish babies from day-olds and they are now 8 weeks old.  8 days ago, I moved the chicksb outside to a little prefab coop about 15 feet from the main coop.  My girls are very interested in the chicks.  Of course, when I have anything to do with the chicks, I have hens that have to be given treats.  Well, the 3 hens have now built dust-bowls (1 each) less than 1 foot from the little chicks.  Has anyone seen this behavior before and what did it lead to?  I am so hoping I won't have problems integrating them.  Thanks for any help.

It sounds like the hens are just very interested in your chicks. Making "dust bowls" is absolutely normal and chickens will do this anywhere they feel that there is good dirt and that spot may just be next to the chicks. It may just be that the hens can't resist the cuteness of the chicks

 

[Tamma]

Thanks for your post. Since we talked one of the hens has been trying to peck the chicks thru the cage. From what I have read on this site, I think I will keep the chicks separate from the hens for 2-3 more weeks. Wish me luck!