Making the flock as one

[jaybud]

So Im trying to understand on what's going on with my flock. It seems I have a split with breeds and a pecking order issue going on. I introduced 3 eight week old birds to the main flock. They are 2 Americana and 1 golden sebrite birds. My main flock is 6 golden sex links, 2 ducks and one Cornish leg horn mix rooster. With them being about 4 months old. The main flock seemed to chase them consistently but now just chases them around the feed tray. I let my birds free range so there's plenty of room to roam but they still won't blend. Will this be the case from here on out or will they eventually become one. Thnx

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

What you are seeing is normal/natural behavior when new birds are introduced into the mix. As time passes they will accept that the new birds are part of the group vs. being "outsiders" that must be driven away to protect the resources of the flock (ie the feed they chase them around). How long has it been since you made the introduction? What process did you use in introducing them? Setting up at least one additional feed station can be a good way to help ease the transition as it short circuits the abilty of the dominate bird(s) to control access to feed by the subordinate birds.

 

[J Halliday]

I'm having the same problem. I have 3 reds, 3 bardrock and 2 whites and I introduced 3 new hens about a week ago. The 3 new hens run up in the coupe and won't come out. When they do the other birds peck at them....get on top of them and basically run them out of the main run. I don't know how long it will be this way. I hope not long.

 

[jaybud]

Thnx for the info. I introduced the new birds by only have them be around during the days and putting them back under the lamp at night. It has been about a month now since I started letting them hang with the main flock all day.