How do I keep the stress level low for my adult RIR coming next week?

[Meow618]

I will be getting adult RIR (6 hens and 2 roosters) next week. What should I expect when I get them? Will they be really stressed out? How do I keep the stress at a minimum? Thanks!

 

[Mrs. K]

Are you getting them in the mail? If so, give them water, and some feed right away, lock them in a run/coup combination, and leave them alone for about 24 hours, and they should be fine.

If you are just picking them up, do the same, but I would not worry about them. They may lay a couple of eggs, but then might take a break for a couple of days as they adjust.

Mrs K

 

[aart]

2 roosters could be a problem with only 6 hens.
What kind of coop/runs do you have for them?
Do you have any existing chickens?

 

[Meow618]

A friend is giving them to us. I have an 8x8 coop with a large run (I call it a playground). They are young pullets and the roosters are brothers. These are our first chickens. I also heard that RIR roosters can be mean. I was hoping since we will have 2 roosters they will be busy with each other and not be aggressive with us.

 

[aart]

It might work out, I'd be ready to separate the roosters from the hens tho.....even one rooster might over-mate 6 hens.

You might be able to split your coop and run with a section for unruly boys if needed until you can harvest or rehome them.