Introducing several birds to a lone survivor

[Honey Buns]

Our already small flock of 3 has recently been reduced to 1 due to an overly excited dog. We are looking to introduce new birds and grow our flock to 4. We aren't sure if we should get 3 different breeds or even worry about it. We've heard different stories. Some say "birds of a feather..." others say it doesn't matter, the birds will establish a pecking order. We don't want our Sexlink to get picked on after all she's been through. What to do, what to do?

 

[NYRIR]

Hi,
I would say it's ok to get different breeds...I cannot even count off the top of my head how many different breeds I have in my coop! In the introduction of new chickens I would have them seperate but able to see each other at least for a few days.Then maybe allow some range time together when you can supervise it, and see how it goes.I am thinking if the new chickens are the same age as your SL then it should go rather smoothly.Are the three you would be getting from the same flock?
Hope all goes well

ETA

 

[dawg53]

Welcome to BYC.

 

[epignosisjs]

Good morning!

from Florida!
Sorry about the dog issue.

If you get three that are already a part of a flock, they may see yours as the outsider, a la "3 against 1"
Good luck with growing your flock! This link will help you find local BYCers, maybe you can find someone who needs a home for one (or more) of their flock.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewforum.php?id=26

 

[mshuey1]

WELCOME MY FRIEND! I would do what NYRIR said, great advice I owen over 200 chickens of all breeds and thats the way I do things it takes time but its all worth it.

 

[Chickencoop1996]

 

[Desert Rooster]

Hello

from Hesperia,CA and

 

[weimarmama]

&

from Alabama.

 

[NonnasBabies]

&

from Pride, La.

 

[Codyandme1]

Hi im new but i definately say make sure that all the new birds you get have been vacinated as you dont want your rescued chicken to catch anything after what shes been through and managed to survive form before. as to introducing them, i think you should keep them seperate for a while incase they have got a disease but when you put them together observe for a while.your original chicken may peck around and defend herself as she considers it her coop or she will get bossed around.if you think its getting to violent seperate them again or just try and feed them treats when they are all together and the chickens should find that good things happen when they are together. try it and see what happens