Introducing new chicks

[Scruzet]

Hi!

I’m new to owning chickens and currently have a Buff Orpington and Barred Rock. They’re both about 4 weeks old. We’re introducing two new chicks, both silkies and are about 4 days old. Is there anything to look out for as far as all of them getting along? Should we have them in separate brooders and introduce them slowly? Any advice will help! Thank you!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I had lots of trouble getting different aged chicks together last year. Mine were about a week apart, and the older ones picked on the younger ones for months. Silkies can be problematic mixing with other breeds to begin with and are sensitive to head pecks especially if they have a vaulted skull. I personally wouldn't combine them. You could end up with dead silkie chicks.