/ Register

  1. If this is your first time on BYC, we suggest you start with one of these three options:
    Raising Chickens Chicken Coops Join BYC
    If you're already a member of our community, click here to login & click here to learn what's new!

introducing new hens?!?!?!?

Discussion in 'Managing Your Flock' started by puddleandnugget, Jan 13, 2015.

Most Liked Posts
  1. Jan 13, 2015 #1
    puddleandnugget

    puddleandnugget Out Of The Brooder

    24
    1
    31
    Jan 8, 2015
    Yorkshire UK
    Hi, I live in the UK (Yorkshire). I currently have two Pekin Bantum hens. I am looking to add another two hens, I have just been made aware that I can re home battery hens. I know it will be a hard, long drawn out process to introduce any newbies to my two girls.

    Question
    1. Would they benefit from extra company?
    2. How much more attention would I need to give ex battery hens?
    3. Are they likely to be a lot more vicious? (Let's face it they can be pretty brutal to each other can chickens)
    4. Would the size difference matter greatly (bantum v normal size)?

    Thanks - any help would be appreciated
     
    Last edited: Jan 13, 2015
  3. Jan 13, 2015 #2
    Mrs. K

    Mrs. K Overrun With Chickens

    4,598
    1,142
    356
    Nov 12, 2009
    western South Dakota
    I can understand the emotions of taking on battery hens, but I just would not like to take on the risk.

    In my opinion, it would need to be a very strict quarantine. Quarantine needs to have a great deal of distance, (I think 300 feet) separating the birds (Not just a wire fence) Many germs travel through the air. The care taker needs to change clothing and shoes between caring for each group of birds.

    You might get lucky and it be a wonderful experience, but it might be a big wreck, and you lose your original girls.

    Mrs K
     
  5. Jan 14, 2015 #3
    puddleandnugget

    puddleandnugget Out Of The Brooder

    24
    1
    31
    Jan 8, 2015
    Yorkshire UK
    Thanks for your help. I will not take the risk.
     

BackYard Chickens is proudly sponsored by