Is it better to add new chicks while your flock is young?

[CindyMichelle3]

We have 4 pullets, a Leghorn, 2 Americanas and a Barred Rock all are around 11 weeks. We've recently talked about getting two silkie bantams. Is it easier to integrate them while our girls are still young? Or should we wait?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Judy]

It is usually felt that integration is best done when all are adult size, or very early, before any are 4 weeks old.

Some people keep bantams and large fowl together, but many find it doesn't work out, especially with crested breeds such as Silkies, because the crest seems to invite pecking and feather picking.

Here is a good article about some aspects of adding to your flock:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/adding-to-your-flock