managing 2 flocks when free ranging

[columbiacritter]

Right now I have a flock of 6 standard size laying hens(no roos) and 6 ducks who free range when ever we're home. Soon we'll be adding flock of Bantam buckeys who will be in a separate but adjoining coop and run. There will be at least one roo, possibly two with the bantams.

I'd like to let both flocks out at the same time to forage. Any hints on keeping the interactions civil? I know the roos will want to collect the standard hens into their harems, but that I can handle. They will be able to see each other since they will be sharing about 8 feet of fence for their runs and I don't plan on letting the buckeyes out until they are almost full grown.

 

[paddock36]

Somehow I always end up with more than one flock or group of chickens and even though they can see each other from their pens when I let them out to free range they stay separate. Believe it or not it was always my bantam Serama roo that would go challenge the big girls and the Turkeys when I had them. Otherwise they pretty much stay apart on their own.

 

[augustmomx2]

I just (by accident) allowed my big girls and new, young flock free range together today. I allowed the big girls out (they are just over 1yr) and the door to the younger group (all about 2mos, with some banties as well) opened and they all ran out

Anywho, the big girls were not concerned with the younger ones and they were all happily foraging together