How long does it generally take to integrate flock

[agilemal]

Hello. I have eight adult hens and six 3.5 month old pullets. They have been separated by a fence for three weeks inside the run and crated in the henhouse at night next to the big girls. I am getting ready to go on vacation in a week and a half. My neighbor will be checking on them once a day. Am I better off leaving them separated in the run until I get home or will a week and a half be long enough for them to establish a pecking order? My run is 10'x 20' run and the henhouse is 5'x5'. Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Poultry parent]

Prettt much as soon as you introduce new birds they're at the bottom of the pecking order, what takes time is them being accepted

 

[agilemal]

Thank you for replying. I guess my actual question was -would it be safe to leave them together after only a week and half of establishing a pecking order or should I continue to separate at them until I return home.

 

[Poultry parent]

They'd probably be ok, but if you want to be there just to be sure, then wait till you get back

 

[LRH97]

Sounds like they have gotten a good introduction to each other. Personally, I'd just wait till I got back. Wouldn't want a neighbor calling saying a newbie chicken got badly pecked. And then me being me, I'd spend more time worrying about them at home than enjoying vacation.

 

[agilemal]

Thank you. I am going to wait. You are right. I couldn't enjoy my vacation and if something happened my poor neighbor would have no idea what to do. My husband said I was worrying too much but that aren't his girls! I am glad you agree. I am building a temporary hen house on their side of the run and will spend the time I have before I leave getting them used to it. Thanks again

 

[aart]

Agrees, waiting would be better.