How do i intergrate chickens?

[DianaMallory]

Been here done that! And will never do it again! It is a slow process that takes a lot of work. Keeping them separate but, you have to have then in a place were they are side by side but can't get at each other for a couple weeks. And then you wait until night time and put them on the same roost together. And then the pecking order begins. You have to make sure they are letting everyone eat and drink. Then leave it to mother nature.

 

[ChristieB]

Lol see I didn't have the space so I just kept the new ones in a pen while the older ones free ranged around for a couple days then one afternoon I just threw them all in together, I'm impatient, it was all I could do just to quarantine the full 3 weeks, let alone draw out the integration! There was plenty of pecking and intimidation and they stayed at opposite ends of the run the first few weeks, but at night they all put their differences aside bedded down together, safety in numbers and all that. now they stick together as if they had always been together

 

[Punkylemons]

THANK YOU for this tip! I will use this next time I integrate new chickens to the flock! I got lucky because mine didn't beat each other up too badly.

 

[Punkylemons]

I just thought of this, but maybe you have done it: put both kennels right next to each other BUT, put a 1/4 inch wire mesh in between them (too small for any heads or beaks to get to another to peck). Let them be side by side for two weeks, then remove the mesh and see if they go at it again. Slowly

One tip someone gave me, and I know it's hard if you have limited space: when introducing flocks to each other, make sure there are plenty of places to hide and get away. A dog kennel won't get you that though. So as others have said, free ranging during the day (if you can watch them so predators can't get them-maybe on a Saturday or Sunday when you have the whole day free) then start to introduce them slowly. I don't know if this will help but good luck, this is no easy task!

 

[Punkylemons]

Okay, I can't stop laughing at your post! First: I love that your bossy chicken is Oprah! BEST POST OF THE DAY!

 

[bobhoke]

I would cut / trim just one wing. Ain't going no wheres.