Introducing different ages

[funkechickn82]

I have 3 age groups of chickens..being housed in three different coops. Two coops are temporary and eventually want them in the one main coop. The ages are 10 months, 9 weeks and 6 weeks. The older chickens peck and chase the middle chickens but the middle chickens peck and chase the younger ones. Any suggestions? I don't want to house any together if I'm going to wake up the next morning and find dead chickens.

 

[boskelli1571]

Firstly - 6 weeks is a bit young to introduce to the rough and tumble of pecking order, just my opinion.
I usually integrate fairly slowly, employing a 'see no can touch' policy for at least a week. Then at roosting time I put the new in with the old. I do this on days where I can keep a close eye on them for 24-48 hours to make sure it doesn't get too violent. Asserting the pecking order isn't pretty - I have found a water pistol helpful on occasion! In you situation I would do everything all at once, so perhaps hold off on the introductions for another few weeks until the little ones are at least 1/2 size of the adult bird.
Good luck to ya,

 

[carolinasculpture]

x2! When we introduce our youngsters to the others, we first house them inside a 10x10 dog run that is inside the big run. That way the older ones can see the young ones, but can't get to them. After a while of this, I put treats on both sides (Inside and outside) of one section of the dog run so they are getting treats "face to face". Then I let the little ones out into the big run daily while I am there. Then gradually for longer periods of time. Usually by the time they are about 3 months old, they just kind of become part of the flock and fit right in. With this system, we haven't had any trouble so far, but always have some "small" places where the little ones can get into to get to food, water or just rest where the bigger ones can't fit. Mine are usually introduced each spring, but where yours are all young, the last part might be a bit of a challenge. I hope it goes well for you!