how long should i wait?

[dento]

I bought some barred rock chickens they are all full grown laying and the rooster is crowing how long should i wait until i can let them freerange without getting lost?

 

[turtlebird]

How long have you had them penned up already?

 

[Annabella]

I let mine out after only 3 or 4 days locked up.
But I start with only 1 hour of light left in the day, so they cant' go too far.
Its a bit dependent on how many hens, type of hen etc too I think.

Some are a bit more flighty and independent than others.
I have two girls that are now in "solitary confinement" they will not stay at home.
I let them out only for an hour at the end of the day, and not every day.
I feel mean - but I would feel worse if they got killed when ranging in the neighbours yard.

 

[dento]

ok thanks guys i will start letting them out a little then i have had them a week now