integrating the babies

[cposz]

We have 2 one year old RIR hens, and in a couple of weeks it will be time to add our 2 buff Orpington chicks to the coop. Any tips for a peaceful integration?

 

[debilorrah]

Quote:
YES! How old are the chicks? Anyway do this:

In the house with the lamp (or wherever you keep them) til about 8 weeks.

Keep them in a seperate brooder with the lamp visible but not accessible to the other birds. For about 4 more weeks.

Then make a small opening in the brooder so they can get out but the bigger birds can't get in. This allows them shelter if they start getting picked on. Leave it open for about 2-4 weeks and then close it off and leave them with the bigger birds.

We have done this three times and never failed once. Good Luck!