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I appreciate all the things you’ve given me to consider. I have checked off a few things, but Will give consideration to the others and plan things out as I go. I think like you said, I will place the chicken pen inside the big pen so that they can get used to being around one another but be safe And observe the hens reactionThank you for your suggestions.Will depend on a lot of factors.
Have they been in sight of the main flock? Integration should always start with a see but don't touch approach for at least a week. Preferably with them being in a high-traffic area where they are in constant contact with the big girls.
Is it warm enough outside, including night time, for them to be without heat?
Are they interested in roosting or still going to ground to rest?
Are they much smaller than the big girls?
Is there ample space in the run, extra feed and water stations, areas where they can hide that breaks eye contact, but doesn't leave them cornered?
I would recommend letting them explore the run without the big girls present - I generally let mine free-range while the babies get used to the run. This way, they won't be running blind in territory they're not familiar with if they need to escape.
Also, introducing them one big girl at a time to see if anyone in particular is a troublemaker.
I put them out with their food and see which the big girl is more interested in. Be ready to step in - older hens can move pretty quick to attack.
'neutral ground's is better for this than 'home turf', so outside the run or in an area they don't frequent is best.
Chicks tend to start their pecking order behaviour at around 6 weeks, so would be an okay time if you can tick off the list above. Just remember, without a broody to protect them, it will be rough on them. You will have to step in as that broody to make sure things go smoothly.
Also, be extra vigilant at roosting time. Older girls tend to force younger ones off the perches and this is when I've experienced the most bullying in my flock. They can completely ignore them all day, then force them to sleep on the floor when it comes time to sleep, so make sure you're there to chaperone.