introducing new hens?!?!?!?

[puddleandnugget]

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

 

[Mrs. K]

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

 

[puddleandnugget]

Thanks for your help. I will not take the risk.