Is a 4' x 7' coop with 2 nesting boxes way too small for 10 chickens?

[wvchix]

Chickens really shouldn't fight while free-ranging unless you have an overabundance of roosters. Hens are pretty mellow and don't cause a whole lot of trouble.

That's a big relief!

 

[cstronks]

At least that is my experience. Roosters can become VERY aggressive if they so choose, and they'll be mean to anybody (even people!). Hens on the other hand don't cause a whole lot of a ruckus. They have a peking order, but I notice that while free ranging, they're much more interested in what is out there than picking on each other. I'd free range them as much as possible.

 

[wvchix]

Do you know how old the chicks should be before I start to introduce them to my 4 one year old hens?

 

[cstronks]

I think its a size thing...make sure they are the same size. Here is an article I found about introducing new chickens to a flock on BYC: https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/adding-to-your-flock