I'm currently in the process of integrating six 9 week old pullets into my small flock of four 2 year olds. We've been doing slow intros of the pullets in a separated area where they can see each other when outside and we've partitioned off a section of the inside of the coop that only the pullets can get in and out of with their food and water for now. Today we graduated to the pullets going into the other side by themselves and down the ramp into the run and outside. They are also checking out the feeders and waterers out in the run. Nobody seems to care much about the new additions except my Buff Orpington Daphne who is lowest in the pecking order and she chases them every chance she gets and delivers some hard pecks on their backs.
For those who have added new flock members, how long did it take for the newbies to be fully accepted? Will they ever free range together or should I expect both groups to just range separately for some time? Will they just naturally integrate eventually?
For those who have added new flock members, how long did it take for the newbies to be fully accepted? Will they ever free range together or should I expect both groups to just range separately for some time? Will they just naturally integrate eventually?