Intoducing young hens to older ones

[snoozee-q]

I have 4 hens and looking to purchase 2 aracaunas. They are not laying yet but should be in a few months. Should I keep them all penned for a week or so, and then let them out to free range.

 

[earlybird10842]

I would keep the younger ones in sight of the older ones, in a spot where they cannot peck each other, until size differences even out. I don't know about penned vs. free-ranging though.