How do I mix my 2 flocks?

[Zed3]

I have (6) year old barred rocks and need to put them into the same coop/run with my (6) 1 1/2 year old golden comets. They have never free ranged together and their only contact has been brief through a fence. What is the best way to do this. Move them at night after they have roosted, or free range them together and have them return to the same coop at sunset? The coop and run has plenty of room so that should not be an issue.

Thanks for the help.

Zed

 

[Happy Chooks]

I'd probably give them free range time together so they can get used to each other and let them go to their own coops at night. Do this for a couple weeks, then stick them all in 1 coop at night (move roosters last-otherwise they sound the alarm and freak everyone out) It will take a couple weeks for them to sort out their order, but as long as there is not blood, they'll be fine.

 

[CMV]

Here's the best write-up on flock integration I have seen (written by a fellow BYCer). I hope it helps.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=2593-adding-to-your-flock

Good luck.