Merging Two Flocks

[johnhallford]

Questions for the more experienced chicken keepers here.

I have two coops which are side-by-side and separated by chicken wire. I want to combine both into a single flock and open the doors between the two coops.

Pen 1 has 17 hens and 2 roosters, and Pen 2 has 15 hens and two roosters. The roosters in Pen 1 grew up together as did the two in Pen 2, so they get along between them; however, its no surprise, the roosters from each pen don't like each other and try to fight between the wiring. It seems clear I will be unable to combine the entire flock.

The roosters in Pen 1 can be aggressive and have attacked me several times. I've had a little field goal practice as the dominant one came after me several times. Because of this, I'm ready to get rid of the roosters in Pen 1 and let the two in Pen 2 take over their duties.

This means I will have a flock of 31 hens and two roosters. Knowing this, do you have any words of wisdom before I commit to sending the first roosters to the freezer and opening the doors between the two runs? Thank you for any advice and wisdom you care to share.

 

[citymeetscountry]

If they’re only separated by chicken wire and this have been see but not touch I would assume it would be fairly easy to integrate. Also realize they will go through establishing a new pecking order amongst themselves.

 

[johnhallford]

If they’re only separated by chicken wire and this have been see but not touch I would assume it would be fairly easy to integrate. Also realize they will go through establishing a new pecking order amongst themselves.

Thanks. I'm a city boy turned country last August. I've learned so much but am still learning. I appreciate your input.

 

[Yardmom]

Make sure there are breaks in the line of sight and places to hide. This helps hens show submission in a small space.

 

[Klutch]

The dominant hens will do battle with each other till they cry uncle. If their gamey's it could get ugly. Good luck

 

[johnhallford]

Make sure there are breaks in the line of sight and places to hide. This helps hens show submission in a small space.

Thank you.

 

[johnhallford]

The dominant hens will do battle with each other till they cry uncle. If their gamey's it could get ugly. Good luck

Thank you.