Interval to let new chickens roam.

[mariabraud]

Hi all,
I recently was given some new mature hens ( a mixed flock). I have integrated them to out established flock with out incident. I have been keeping them all in the coop and have not let them range since the newcomers have arrived. My question is this: How long should I keep them all in the coop before I let them out to range. My old girls know the way home.
Thanks so much.

 

[Den in Penn]

A week or so usually gets them to think of the coop as home. If it took that long for the integration they should be set.