Introducing chicks

[SharonAlex]

I have inherited about 20 hens along with a mother hen with 2 babies, I currently have mom and chicks in a cage inside the chicken pen. How long before I can release them in with rest of flock?

 

[osint2026]

I have inherited about 20 hens along with a mother hen with 2 babies, I currently have mom and chicks in a cage inside the chicken pen. How long before I can release them in with rest of flock?

6-8 weeks

 

[rosemarythyme]

If you have time to supervise, I'd let the hen and chicks out immediately and see how they do. The mama should protect them. You want her to get the chicks integrated into the flock before she decides to wean them, or else that task falls to you.

 

[Greta A]

ASAP I agree with. I usually give 24 hrs depending on situation with coop

 

[aart]

I currently have mom and chicks in a cage inside the chicken pen

Do you have other chickens too?

I hope you have a large coop and run.

 

[wrathsfarm]

I keep my broodys and chicks separated from flock but in sight for 2-3 days just to monitor the little ones. (I'm setting specific eggs) After that I release her into the run for a couple days while the flock is out free ranging, by 1 week old I'm letting them out to free range with the flock usually an hour or 2 before dusk, supervising for violence and predators. My rooster also imprints on the chicks so this helps here.
Maybe a little over protective on my part, others brood with their flock.

Do you have other chickens too?

Good point

I hope you have a large coop and run.

Good point, also.