Introducing Chicks to Rooster

[ErikaV7]

Hi all! We have had hens for about a decade and every few years we've introduced a few more pullets as needed. About two years ago one of our pullets turned out to be a rooster and since he's been gentle and docile we've let him stay. We also haven't had any predator problems since we've had him, so that's a bonus. Because none of our hens have been broody (ever), we decided to incubate eggs in our home from our own flock. It was really successful and we have four chicks to add to the flock. But I've never added new babies when we have a rooster. So---do you have any tips or tricks for this situation? We should have enough room in the coop and run, and none of our hens or rooster are aggressive. The chicks are about five weeks old and three are fully feathered. I'm pretty sure I have two roos and two hens. I only want one rooster for the whole flock, but not 100% sure yet about our chicks so don't want to cull any until I'm sure. Suggestions??

 

[Oncoming Storm]

Are they in a run or free ranged? I usually let mine out at about two or three months old which is a little later than usual but I have lots of Roos because no one wants them :/. If they’re in a run, I would suggest putting the chicks somewhere adjacent to the coop so everyone can see but not touch. With my birds, I usually put them in a stall and let them wander out when they’re comfortable. Most of my Roos are chill but there one that has had to be separated for aggressive reasons. Hens can also be nasty to babies so be careful. This is another reason for the look but don’t touch method if you have a run. Chicks can be very resourceful and quick to learn. They’ll acclimate quickly and probably stick together until they’re more mature.