Issues Introducing new birds to the existing flock

[willrev]

Hey, existing flock of seven is almost a year old. They are molting here in the cold in NC. Not laying except one or two birds. I got two more juveniles that are coop ready and put them in at dusk. They have been chased back into the coop again and again. Not sure what to do. Any suggestions? The new ones are a speckled sussex and an americauna with the puffy cheek feathers. Different chickens chase them back. I think from what I read this is normal and may subside after a few days. The layer pellets are in the coop due to weather and the water is outside in the run. Only thing I can think is maybe to put some water in the house for the two new ones. Any suggestions?

 

[bobbi-j]

Sounds like you're on the right track - make sure there is water inside for the younger ones. The older ones can come inside and eat as they will. They will sort things out within a few days or so. The older ones are just making sure that the younger ones know their place in the flock.