Integrating 6 week old cockerel with 12 week old pullets

[AV8RChick]

Hi,
I am relatively new to chickens. Thanks to all the BYC posters. I have learned so much on this wonderful site!
I have read several threads on integrating birds but I am not sure if I should wait or add the cockerel now. I have 12 pullets in one coop & run (mix of EE, GLW & CM) that are 12 weeks old. I have another group of pullets and more cockerels (various marans) than I need in another coop & run that are 6 weeks old. I'd like to eventually add one of the 6 week old cockerels to the 12 week old pullet coop. The 6 week olds are obviously smaller in size than the 12 week old pullets. Should I wait for the cockerel to become a similar size to the 12 week old pullets or should I integrate now? I have plenty of space and currently there is no chick drama in either coop. Any advice on the best way to approach this is much appreciated!

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

It is best to have them similar in size.

At six weeks they are sure timid. The 12 week old ones are timid too, compared to an adult, but they may beat up your little cockerel.

The optimal time to integrate with adults is 16 weeks.