Introducing Young Roosters to Older Roo who is alone.

[freyja528]

I have at least three 6(ish) week olds that are clearly roosters. How long should I wait before moving them to my bachelor pad? Said bachelor pad only has one rooster currently. When I do move them, how do you introduce young roosters to a year old rooster who has been on his own for several months now? Is it the same as putting new hens with an established flock?

 

[EggSighted4Life]

I have at least three 6(ish) week olds that are clearly roosters. How long should I wait before moving them to my bachelor pad? Said bachelor pad only has one rooster currently. When I do move them, how do you introduce young roosters to a year old rooster who has been on his own for several months now? Is it the same as putting new hens with an established flock?

Sooner is better than later.

Use the look but don't touch method for at least a few days or longer if needed.

I've had great success doing this.

Hope it goes well for you also!

 

[McRaffi Farm]

Sooner is better than later.

Use the look but don't touch method for at least a few days or longer if needed.

I've had great success doing this.

Hope it goes well for you also!

Please explain “Use the look but don't touch method for at least a few days or longer if needed.” I think I know but want to make sure…

 

[BigBlueHen53]

These should help:

This is my article on Integrating:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/integrating-a-pictorial-guide.79343/


And here is another excellent article on integrating flocks:


https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/integrating-chickens-step-by-step.72815/

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Basically, you set it up so the chickens can see, hear and smell each other but not touch. A couple of weeks at least. Then, as unceremoniously as possible, remove the barriers that separate them. They should hardly notice a difference.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

I've heard it called the "see-no-touch" method.

 

[Mrs. K]

One way gates work well too. So create a safety zone inside the run. Put the chicks in that. Have feed and water in there too. In a couple of days. Lift up the fencing, enough that the chicks can get out, and back in, but the rooster cannot follow them. This gives them safety and the chicks manage the integrations, not people. They come out on their terms, and retreat as necessary.