Integrating Flocks?

[barred-rocks-rock]

Hey everybody, i have 23 chicks that are 5 weeks old. I also have a group of 6 barred rock pullets that are 14 weeks old. The rocks are in a very large coop , that would fit the rest of my chicks for at least two weeks. Is it safe to put them together? I need answers fast.

 

[Lilywater101]

I would not recommend it becuz the chicks could be more prone to catching diseases from the older group. The chicks might also get bullied or picked on. It is usually better to separate flocks of different ages.

 

[txchickie]

When I've integrated flocks, I've just let them share a fence-line for a week or two. Let them see eachother and interact with eachother, but the fence is there for protection until they get it all sorted out.

It's worked for me.

 

[The Wolf Queen]

With mine I make sure the newbies are large enough not to get severely hurt then I mix them and watch them for about 30 minutes an hour depending. If all seems well I leave them and check back every few hours. Usually the newbies kinda cower in a corner for a day or two then they are fine except for the occasional peck. No diseases or anything

 

[ranchhand]

I wait until the sizes are similar, then do the fence separation for a week or so. Even after that, I supervise carefully, to make sure no one is being singled out for harassment.

 

[barred-rocks-rock]

thanks guys!