Integrating new members...

[Chicks Galore3]

I am getting new chicks April 1st, and I wondering when the best time would be to integrate them? like, what age?

 

[DavidKerk]

Well, I have always tried to introduce my chicks at about 16 weeks old because that is when I transition my chicks from starter feed to layer's feed. I have also heard that the best time of day to do this is in the evening when all the chickens are roosting for the night.

 

[lahowardjr]

I also introduce new pullets when its time to change over from starter to layer feed. I divide up my pen and let them get accustomed to each other through the fence. I have a small cage that I weather proof and darken that the chicks roost in at night. It takes two weeks or so for them to acclimate. There is still a rearrangement of the pecking order for a week or so after they are brought together. I also recommend introducing them at night. Many just put them on the roost with the old flock when everyone is sleeping on the roost. Still keep an eye on them to make sure no one gets beat up too bad.

 

[Chicks Galore3]

Ok, thanks guys! We are might be going on a 2 week vacation when the chicks are around 4-5 months old- prime time for intergrating and for my rooster I am getting!