Soujrnr
Songster
Last week, our beloved Nina died while sitting on the nest. We didn't notice any odd behavior, but things happen. So, we are giving consideration to getting some more. We were told that getting just one (who can do that anyway?) is not a good idea. We were told that it would better to get a minimum of three to add to our existing flock of four. Our girls are probably about two years old. We have the big coop, and we have an 18-foot run. The run is separated by a small door that we close up at night while they roost.
What we are wondering is what would be the best way to introduce some new girls to the mix. The run doesn't really have shelter like the coop. It does have a roof and some places for them to roost, but not a building to be in. No predators can reach in and grab them as the whole thing is covered in two layers of wire. I've used 2x4 welded wire covered by 1/4" hardware cloth. My main concern isn't the security of the coop and run, but the behavior of the existing girls if we add a few more.
I'd love to hear what you all have to say. We are very new to this. It's our first year with chickens.
What we are wondering is what would be the best way to introduce some new girls to the mix. The run doesn't really have shelter like the coop. It does have a roof and some places for them to roost, but not a building to be in. No predators can reach in and grab them as the whole thing is covered in two layers of wire. I've used 2x4 welded wire covered by 1/4" hardware cloth. My main concern isn't the security of the coop and run, but the behavior of the existing girls if we add a few more.
I'd love to hear what you all have to say. We are very new to this. It's our first year with chickens.