Integrating chicks to flock

[Lisa L]

My hens chicks are now just over four weeks old. I've kept them on the same run as my other hens and rooster dad, but in their own separate "nursery" fenced off area. So they all see and know each other. Another hen hatched her chicks right in the big coop area since she is the dominate hen. Those chicks are a week older than the first mentioned and are all doing great. I'd like to open the nursery area door and let them out to mingle with the others. Is it time or should I wait another couple weeks.

 

[Aunt Angus]

My hens chicks are now just over four weeks old. I've kept them on the same run as my other hens and rooster dad, but in their own separate "nursery" fenced off area. So they all see and know each other. Another hen hatched her chicks right in the big coop area since she is the dominate hen. Those chicks are a week older than the first mentioned and are all doing great. I'd like to open the nursery area door and let them out to mingle with the others. Is it time or should I wait another couple weeks.

You can try it, but make sure they have a place to get away from anyone. Can you maybe try letting them all out together free ranging/foraging? I've integrated some earlier by letting them all out of the run and watching them. Their mama will defend them as needed.

 

[Lisa L]

Fabulous idea! I'll try that. Thanks!

 

[Lisa L]

Fabulous idea! I'll try that. Thanks!

Well I tried, but as soon as the two mama hens saw each other they went at it...fighting. So I scooped Francis up and put her back in the nursery with her chicks. I guess I'll wait another couple weeks.