Input on integrating two groups of chicks

[ADozenGirlz]

Quote:
When I remove the physical barrier between the two groups, I let them free-range in the same area together. That way they all have their space and can get away from each other if they want to.

 

[catchthewind]

Okay thanks, I will try that then instead of in the run. I just felt like in the run I can have a bit more control over the interactions without worrying about losing one of the babies in the woods or something. But it's a good point that there is no where for the babies to hide there (plus, it's not all that neutral). Thanks so much!

 

[SIMPleChick]

Quote:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/uploads/79549_sam_1394.jpghttps://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/uploads/79549_sam_1389.jpg

LOVE your yard and the pond/fountain thing! My DH really wants a water feature but I want to get one when we move to our final home!

 

[catchthewind]

One more question: If I put them out free ranging together, and they seem to be fine and all go back in the coop together and seem fine, can I trust that things have sorted themselves out? Or should I separate them overnight still for a while? I was thinking I could prop up the little tractor we have the younger chicks in, just enough that they could slip under but not so much that the big ones could easily get in (I'm sure they could if very determined). The bigger group started out as four chicks and grew to nine over a period of about six weeks, so they had new chicks added every week or so for a while. They seem to mostly be pretty accepting. Funny thing is, Luna was the last one added, so the only one that hasn't had a new chick introduced before. Wonder if that has anything to do with her reluctance to accept the new chicks.

 

[AUChick9202]

Quote:
Great question! I want to know the answer too. I have two 5 week old chicks that I'm try to integrate with my four 8 week olds. They free range together during the day. I wouldn't say they are really getting along....the 4 older ones pretty much ignore the babies unless they get too close and then the roo chases and pecks them until they seek refuge under the wood pile....then the little ones emerge when the coast is clear. The big ones are in the coop at night and the little ones sleep in the garage in the brooder, but I am sooooo ready to put them all in the coop at night.