Incorporating 2 Flocks into 1

[Cfallon5094]

I raised two separate flocks. My first group of 6 went outside at around 8 weeks, at which time I moved 4 new chicks inside. When they were 8 weeks, I moved the second flock of 4 outside and combined them with the first, older flock of 8. There were no out-and-out brawls, but the first, older flock is definitely the "alpha flock." The older ones chase the second, younger flock members around, and hog all of the treats that I give the whole group. My question is, will they ever fully integrate? I feel sorry for the younger flock as they are definitely submissive to the older flock. Thanks!

 

[Wezdin]

Yes, they will eventually integrate. i have done the same thing and they get picked on for a while until everything is settled out.

 

[Ridgerunner]

That is exactly what I would expect. More mature chickens outrank less mature chickens in the pecking order and are often not adverse to physically enforcing those pecking order rights. It usually doesn't take long for the younger to learn to avoid the older. I consider an integration a success if no one gets hurt, sounds like you are there.

When the younger mature enough to force their way into the pecking order they will merge a lot more. They often still sort of hang with the ones they grew up with but you'll see them interacting a lot more. With my pullets that is usually when they start to lay so you probably have a way to go.

 

[Cfallon5094]

That is exactly what I would expect. More mature chickens outrank less mature chickens in the pecking order and are often not adverse to physically enforcing those pecking order rights. It usually doesn't take long for the younger to learn to avoid the older. I consider an integration a success if no one gets hurt, sounds like you are there.

When the younger mature enough to force their way into the pecking order they will merge a lot more. They often still sort of hang with the ones they grew up with but you'll see them interacting a lot more. With my pullets that is usually when they start to lay so you probably have a way to go.

Thank you so much!