How can I encourage my hens and chicks to integrate?

[Indigo a la mode]

Hi there, I have three chicks (9ish weeks) who have been living with my three hens for the past few weeks. They sleep all together in the coop without incident, but as they free-range all day, they stick to their own age groups and don't interact with the others at all (except for one hen occasionally charging toward one of the chicks and then wandering away). It's been several weeks - is this normal? I was really hoping they'd integrate into one cozy flock but it seems more like I'm raising two separate mini-flocks. Any suggestions?

Thank you!

 

[Mrs. K]

They will when the pullets are laying, but not before that. Until then they will be the sub flock you are describing. This is perfect normal chicken society. You will see the division until they begin to lay, and then, it will just be gone. Kind of amazing.

If they are ignoring each other, this IS a successful integration.

Mrs. K

 

[Indigo a la mode]

Thanks, Mrs. K! I will look forward to that!