Mid chicks and new hatchlings

[Gdlindy]

We have several, what I would call mid chicks, they have feathers but are not fully grown. I have them separated but able to see the adult chickens.

Presently we have a brooding hen who should start having her eggs hatch by the end of the week, she is presently still in the main coop.

We attempted to relocate the brood hen and eggs last weekend (Light check on eggs was promising). She is presently on the second tier about two feet off of the floor on a platform. The next morning she went back up and would not stay below so we relocated the eggs back up.

A few questions;

1. How old should the mid-chicks be for integrating with the flock?
2. Should we relocate the brood hen and eggs or wait? (out to the segregated pen)
3. Will it be safe for the mid-chicks and new ones/mother hen to be together?

 

[cnicho05]

Hello,

These are very common questions with complex answers.

Firstly, there is no real age that you should consider when integrating both groups of chickens. I've worked with people who have combined 1-3 year old (large breeds) with 4-6 week old (bantams). Honestly, you only need to monitor the birds for a few days to ensure there is no harm being done by either group...as sometimes the younger chickens cause the problems.

Secondly, I've never moved a broody hen and/or her eggs. I find that the chicks better adapt to their surroundings if they are hatched within the same environment where they will live. If you are only worried about egg production then you may consider moving this hen as she may inspire others to become broody.

Lastly, as long as you monitor your group for a few days you shouldn't have any problems. Most often there is never a problem but its always best to be safe. I've used an old camera to videotape my last group and simple fast-forwarded through the video watching for any problems.

I hope this helps...