Mixing babies with 7 week old females

[PingoBags]

There is 8, 2 week old coturnix quail and I'd like to put them in with 3, 7 week old timid females.
Could that be an issue?

I know I couldn't put them in with my males, they are right little shits!

 

[SteveSRT]

I think the females might tear them up. They'll try to peck the feet like they are worms

 

[PingoBags]

I put them out in the quail coop yesterday. Didn't want to take the chance until I knew from you guys so I separated them for now. Babies, females and males are all separate.

Reason I wanted them together is because I'm building a winter waterer and wanted to teach everyone to use nipples. My heated waterer happens to be on the heated side of the coop so I guess the males can learn later on if I don't strangle them before then ha.

 

[JaeG]

The females may view them as intruders to their territory, no matter how sweet they are. You will need to put them in neutral territory and really monitor their interactions. I've put Button quail chicks of different ages together and it worked the first time but the next batch was picked on by just a few of the others. Make sure you still provide heat for the young ones as two weeks old is too young to be without heat.

 

[PingoBags]

@JaeG
I'll probably not chance it and keep them separate. In 4 weeks when they're the same size, I'll start introducing them.
They have heat..

 

[TwoCrows]

@JaeG
I'll probably not chance it and keep them separate. In 4 weeks when they're the same size, I'll start introducing them.
They have heat..

X2 wait until they are older, same size and have their wits about them. I have had success mixing in youngsters with hens only. Males are a no no and will cause the hens to become aggressive. When babies are grown and completely out of the brooder, you should be ok. I like to cage babies for a few days or a week with the hens so the hens dont panic and attack. Let them all get to know each other for a week from behind wire. Makes for a smooth transition. Instant babies in hens territory will cause alarm.

Good luck with your little ones!

 

[PingoBags]

Thanks for the tips you guys.