Introducing (2) 7 week old chicks to (2) more 7 week old chicks

[LLL]

Hi, I've received some wonderful advice regarding my knowledge around the "pecking order". We've made the decision to rehome our 1 older EE and one young adult RIR. We will then start over with our (2) 7 week old ISA Brown chicks. It was suggested if I wanted more chickens to add more the same age which I think is a great idea. Before I get in over my head (again), I would like some feedback on anyone's experience regarding adding 2 more ISA Brown chicks the same age making a total of 4. Would bringing the 2 we have currently together with 2 strangers cause problems even though they are the same age and breed? I'll just stay with the 2 if they are going to peck at each other. Your feedback is appreciated and thank you!!!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Anytime you bring to separate "groups" together there will be some discord until pecking order is settled.
Applying a "see but don't touch" method allows birds to become familiar with each other and does seem to lessen the stress on both sides when integration is implemented. There will still be posturing, bullying, pecking, chasing, etc. no matter how long they "see" each other. If no blood is being drawn, no one is being pinned down, then observe and let it play out. No matter what method of integration is used, it takes time and patience.

Pecking order continues throughout their entire life. Even in an "old" established flock, it's there. The top tier birds take the choicest treats, the preferred roosting spot, dust bathing holes, etc., they let the lower birds know this everyday. It can sometimes be hard to watch for us humans because of our emotions. We tend to feel sorry or want things to be equal, so we step in. Chickens accept that there is a pecking order-it is what it is...there is always going to be a top bird and a low bird.

Even if you only have 2 there will be a pecking order. One will boss the other, so if you want 4, then do it, just give them time to sort things out.

Just my thoughts.

 

[LLL]

Thank you, I appreciate the reply and information as I continue to learn.

 

[rosemarythyme]

So these 7 week olds would be the only 4 chickens at this time? If that's the case they might just get along from the start. I had two 7 week olds and got two more that were very close in age, put them together without any introductory period and they were fine. I'd keep an eye on them of course, and be prepared to separate them if there seems to be an issue, but younger chickens don't seem to have the same strict pecking order as adults.

 

[LLL]

Thank you very much.