Introducing younger chick to older ones

[Jmash]

Hi! Quick question:
I have 2 chicks currently in our brooder, but wanted to get one more (a Welsummers, to replace one we recently lost but loved). Trouble is, the next one hatches on 9/19 and would be 3 weeks younger than the older chicks.

Is that okay? Should I separate them but allow them to see each other for a few days? Or should I just forget getting this last chick and be happy with the 5 we currently have (could add more later)

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I would pass on it. After a week or two chicks recognize who belongs and who doesn't. The older ones will bully the baby more than likely.

 

[aart]

I have successfully added day old chicks to a group that was 1-3wks old.
I'd add more than 1 tho, 2 at least.
Split brooder with wire, the DO's wanted in with the group,
the oldest chick wanted in with the DO's so I put her in the them,
she just wanted their feed/water and didn't bother them at all.
So I put DO's in with group and they were all fine.
After a day I removed the wire barrier that was splitting brooder.