Integrating 4 pullets to Single Hen

[MrLeeHo]

I have 2 integration threads:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/integrating-the-splits-documenting-the-process.1469700/

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/setting-up-an-integration-facility.1496470/

One thing I made sure of when setting up the safe-space and creating the little openings was that I put in TWO openings instead of just one. That way if I'd miscalculated and one of my smaller adults decided to squeeze into the little ones' place the little ones could get out.

I've had three quite smooth integrations -- oversized facilities and NC's mild weather helped because I didn't have to force them into close proximity.

At this point, when I'm pulling the 10-week-olds out of the nest boxes I stick as many as will conveniently fit onto the roosts with the big girls and nobody gets pecked.

Those are very helpful threads. I am thinking this weekend I may cut out one slat of each of the pallets that would give a narrow opening for the youngsters on each side. I believe this would be about a 3-4 inch opening and i don't think Bigs can get through that. I know it will be large enough for the pullets because one of them slipped through a gap last night when they were being placed in their home and i had to cover it with a piece of scrap.

I am in the NC Piedmont so very similar climate and the forecast for atleast the next 10 days is very pleasant. I am hoping I can get everyone together and sleeping in the coop prior to the next cold snap. Thanks Again

 

[3KillerBs]

Those are very helpful threads. I am thinking this weekend I may cut out one slat of each of the pallets that would give a narrow opening for the youngsters on each side. I believe this would be about a 3-4 inch opening and i don't think Bigs can get through that. I know it will be large enough for the pullets because one of them slipped through a gap last night when they were being placed in their home and i had to cover it with a piece of scrap.

I am in the NC Piedmont so very similar climate and the forecast for atleast the next 10 days is very pleasant. I am hoping I can get everyone together and sleeping in the coop prior to the next cold snap. Thanks Again

Sounds like a good plan.

I listened to good advice from @DobieLover, @Ridgerunner, and @aart when learning to do integrations and it worked splendidly.

Though, of course, there are no guarantees with living animals.

 

[MrLeeHo]

Well, I guess the girls decided that night 2 was the right time to integrate themselves. I just went out to check where the pullets decided to sleep tonight and 2 were roosting on the pallet in their corner, then I found 1 roosting on the brooder i keep in the run outside of their enclosure, couldnt find the 4th little one…until i checked the main coop. There she was, sleeping on the floor in the corner with Bigs roosting in her typical spot. The 2 escapees mustve squeezed between the run screening and the pallet.

I guess my plan tomorrow is get out there just at first light to make sure everything is ok. Then fix up the corner with a couple of small entries so they still have a safe place and just keep watch.

I am thinking this is a good sign…thoughts from others??
Thanks

 

[3KillerBs]

Well, I guess the girls decided that night 2 was the right time to integrate themselves. I just went out to check where the pullets decided to sleep tonight and 2 were roosting on the pallet in their corner, then I found 1 roosting on the brooder i keep in the run outside of their enclosure, couldnt find the 4th little one…until i checked the main coop. There she was, sleeping on the floor in the corner with Bigs roosting in her typical spot. The 2 escapees mustve squeezed between the run screening and the pallet.

I guess my plan tomorrow is get out there just at first light to make sure everything is ok. Then fix up the corner with a couple of small entries so they still have a safe place and just keep watch.

I am thinking this is a good sign…thoughts from others??
Thanks

That sounds very promising.

My latest batch of chicks had a couple bold girls decide to sleep with the big kids very early. I thought I'd lost them, then I saw two little heads peeking out from behind the Cochin fluff and went around to get this photo.

 

[Ridgerunner]

I am thinking this is a good sign…thoughts from others??

Sometimes it can be that easy.

 

[MrLeeHo]

Morning Update...I went out at first light this morning. Bigs was the only one up and moving. The one little one was still in the coop and the other 3 still roosting in the run. When the 2 escapees came down into the run from the roost and coop there was not much to speak of happening at first. Then one of the littles got bold and approached Bigs...she quickly let her know that her personal space is for her. Some pecking and a bit of chasing. She chased her for maybe 3-5 feet then backed off. Same thing happened with the other little a few seconds later. Then Bigs chased them into one of the corners but once she had them cornered, she backed off. No pinning down and nothing I would consider "abuse". I have moved the pallet walls out from the run walls on both sides and near the box so the littles now have 3 small escape/entries. Once I did that the 2 escapees went back into their corner/safe space. This was about 2 hours ago. All four littles have stayed in their space since then. Added pics of the adjusted setup below and a bonus pic of Bigs just because she was showing off for the camera

 

[Ridgerunner]

Sounds like you are going really well. Just be patient and let them work it out.

 

[MrLeeHo]

Midday check im...these girls are cracking me up today. Went out to check and make sure all is still well. The run was silent which is always a concern...Bigs usually comes cackling and running when she hears me. Went in and what did I see, Bigs in the littles' "corner". Uh oh, where are the girls, did she corner them in the box and is not letting them out? Turned around and....they have taken over the main coop. Basking in the sunlight coming through the coop window.

I am not wondering who really is in charge here.

 

[3KillerBs]

Sounds like the integration is going great!

 

[adstowe]

I wouldnt worry too much. Chickens are territorial and possessive, but they're also flock animals. She'll show them who's boss, but she also craves company. Just go slow and let them work it out. Before long they'll have it all sorted. They may not become buddies any time soon, but they'll come to an understanding.