Integrating hens

[ChikinLittle22]

Good Morning. I have 6 birds, 4 near lay (purchased together at 6 wks), 1 at lay, 1 laying (these 2 are sisters). I want to add 2-3 hens that are laying (hyline brown) 18 mo old. Is this a good idea and what is the best way to
Integrate? TIA

 

[aart]

Impatient for more eggs?
Is this your first flock?
Adding older birds can bring in eggs but also pests and disease.
If you live in the northern hemisphere, and 18 month old hen may be close to molt and moving them may also stop egg production due to moving stress.
How big is your coop and run, in feet by feet?
Lots of space is key to an easier integration.

 

[ChikinLittle22]

Impatient for more eggs?
Is this your first flock?
Adding older birds can bring in eggs but also pests and disease.
If you live in the northern hemisphere, and 18 month old hen may be close to molt and moving them may also stop egg production due to moving stress.
How big is your coop and run, in feet by feet?
Lots of space is key to an easier integration.

Wow! Thank you for so much to think about. I had not thought of most. The run is 134 sg ft plus the coop 4x8. Yes 1st flock. Actually it’s my husband anxious for eggs. You really helped thank you, great info.
If I decide to add 2-3 more pullets next Spring, I know to quarantine, but what is the best age?

 

[aart]

If I decide to add 2-3 more pullets next Spring, I know to quarantine, but what is the best age?

For eggs near year round, it's best to add a few chicks each year.
They mostly lay thru their first winter, but their second fall/winter they will molt and stop laying until the days get longer again.
A 4x8 coop is not really big enough for more than 6 birds.

I like to add young chicks as young as possible, brooding them in the coop but separated by wire until about 4 weeks old. Except for building out a brooding area, it's by far the easiest way to add birds.

Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, and then it's always there!

 

[ChikinLittle22]

I updated my profile. I’m in West Tx