blue tulip farm
Hatching
- May 24, 2021
- 2
- 0
- 9
I am an 'urban farmer' if you will - small little yard but we have chickens and dogs (not together, obvs). Our little crew of 2 birds (was 3, one died mid-winter), is now going to be a crew of 5 birds, but I'm struggling with the integration of the chicks. The babes are about 7 weeks old and I had them in a separate crate inside the run for 3 days (slept in our house at night). When I released them on Saturday, there was lots, I mean LOTS of pecking by the two old ladies (old = 1 year). Yesterday I had to separate them because I was terrified for the babes. The pecking was almost constant. So, now they are back in the internal crate during the day, will be moved to the indoor pen in the shed at night. I'm planning to do this for another week or so and try again. Can someone, with urban chicken experience, please advise what to do? I'd like to make sure none of my girls are killed by the older ones. Also, they are not sleeping in the coop at night with the big birds...that seems like a death wish right now. I'd love for this transition to be smooth, with the understanding that there is a pecking order and things can get a little messy, but it seemed so violent (it wasn't, but it felt that way). Maybe they're still too young? Also, my girls are named Phoebe, Rachel, Monica (RIP), Fat Monica, Janice, and Regina Phalange. Their home is Central Peck. (don't judge me...lol). Phoebe is a buff orpington and Rachel is an Australorp...if that matters.