I want four hens. Should I start with two or four pullets?

[SunnyAlberta]

I may be ready for some birds this week. Should I try just two? Three? Or go for my max of four? Pros and cons? I am thinking it would be fun to have four different birds.

 

[Judy]

I'd get the 4, and I'd get different breeds so I could easily tell them apart. Adding chickens to a flock is always a little dicey, upsets the pecking order, causes attacks of varying ferocity.

 

[SunnyAlberta]

Adding chickens to a flock is always a little dicey, upsets the pecking order, causes attacks of varying ferocity.

So getting different breeds of pullets from different breeders and putting them together from the start is not a good idea then? Maybe I should start with birds all from the same flock.

 

[sourland]

When getting birds from multiple sources, one increases the chance of disease exposure. I would get four at once to lessen pecking order problems.

 

[Red Barn Farms]

yes I agree with sourland. Try getting them all from the same source and four.

 

[DamselinFlannel]

I would get four at the same time, also. However.... I would recommend getting all the same breed. I got four hens when I first started, and I got two Orpingtons and two of another breed. The other breed picked on the Orpingtons mercilessly, even though they had all been raised together. My Orpingtons were so laid back. If you get different breeds, do some research.

 

[SunnyAlberta]

I really appreciate everyone's input. Many thanks!

 

[Raen]

We have 8 hens (hatchery girls) and every one of them is a different breed. We haven't had pecking problems, and we like being able to easily tell them apart. I'd get the variety pack, and go ahead and get 4.

 

[devora]

Sorry if you said this and I didn't pick up on it, are you getting chicks or pullets or hens?

 

[poultryman17]

i also agree. 4 at the same time from the same hatchery. Disease is an ugly thing. 1 sick chick will inherintly spread it quick. i have 5 different breed and have seen the pecking order get established but no major violence. Good luck