Integrating new chickens into old

[Virginiachickens]

6 that are about 14 weeks old
1 that’s like 5 yo
3 that are 2 yo including the rooster

 

[rosemarythyme]

6 that are about 14 weeks old
1 that’s like 5 yo
3 that are 2 yo including the rooster

If the coop is 8x14 of usable floor space (like not divided for storage, where the birds can't use it all) AND temperatures are moderate enough, might try locking the whole group in for a few days to try and home the younger ones to it. The numbers are favorable with the younger outnumbering the older and with that much room they should tolerate being confined for a few days even if they're used to free ranging.

 

[Forrnellie]

The older hens will bully the pullets before they integrate into the flock. There is really no way around that. But there are ways to minimize the impact and trauma. You've already been working on the best way, by having them in a see but not touch situation for three weeks. I think that is long enough and it's time to get them together. You can always put the young ones back and start again if things go wrong.

First, you need to make sure there is enough space for them all. Lack of space will cause big problems with integration. Each bird needs a minimum of 4 square feet of coop space and 8 square feet of run space.

Next, if possible, set up another feeder and watering station, preferably out of sight of the one you have now. It's important to make sure the young ones get enough food and water.

Another good thing to do is to set up stuff in the run where the new ones can hide or fly up onto to get out of harm's way. Branches, old tires, anything you have that can create that safe space for them.

Finally, it usually works best to put the new ones onto the roost at night. In the morning, you can monitor how things are going, and it's a good idea to keep watch for a couple of weeks to make sure things are going smoothly.

As I wrote before, there will be bullying. But if it is sustained or the newbies are injured or bleeding, best to separate them until they heal. Especially the bleeding part.

Best of luck. I hope it works out. Remember, people integrate new birds into existing flocks all the time. It'll take some trouble but it's totally doable.

Thank you for this. Waking up at sunrise to see how the night time trick worked this time. A little attached to the two I’m integrating. One polish single hatch from my incubator and a wry neck survivor! They have their own coop so if they get hurt they’re just small coop chicks for life if this doesn’t work!