Introducing Chicks at Different Times

[swift081702]

We are supposed to receive our Cochin eggs this week and our day old Light Sussex chicks are arriving the week of the 19th. Will I have problems raising chicks together that are a couple to a few weeks apart? I also wanted to add two other breeds (to our flock, Ameraucana & Araucana) to have a total of four - six laying hens for our family of four. Can I add chicks at a later time easily or is it better to get them all at the same time? Can we raise bantam and standard chicks together? Just trying to keep the peace among the flock, as these will also be our family pets.

 

[KatyTheChickenLady]

I introduce different ages all the time with no problems except from a meanie or two who I get rid of to avoid a life of "picking" I have found that if I introduce at least four they stick together and have safety in numbers. Although I don't mix hatchlings more than a week apart for the first 6 weeks as I do't want the tiny ones trampled.