Mixing chicks of different ages in brooder, can it be done?

[Leebeez]

We have 7 chicks in a good size brooder, they are now 10-11 days old. Currently using Brinsea Ecoglow brooder/warmer. We are regretting not getting a few more and were toying with the idea of going out and getting 3 or 4 more which are 5-6 days old. What are your opinions? Will the older ones hurt the younger ones?

If it helps, our breeds are:
Buff orp, Light Brahma, EE, black australorp and what looks like a new hampshire red

Additionally, if it is in fact ok to mix the ones I am suggesting, when is the age cut off?

Thanks,
Lee

 

[azygous]

Go for it! Add the chicks, then observe. It's natural for the lead chick to greet the newcomers with a peck on the head, then they should settle in as if they had been together all along.

But don't wait too long to get the new ones. This window of acceptance will close soon!