Mixing different sized chickens in same coop

[lchavis]

We currently have 14 hens. We just got 10 bantam chicks (5 I know are silkies), we are also looking at getting some light Brahamas.

Can I put the bantams in with our current chickens? Also i believe the Brahamas are much bigger than regular chickens, can I also put them in the same coop?

 

[Poultry parent]

There will be some fighting to establish the pecking order, but otherwise it should be fine

 

[lazy gardener]

Depends on the square footage of your coop, and the flock dynamics. IF the birds are crowded, there will be aggressive territory issues.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Hi, welcome to BYC!

I have all breeds together and they do just fine. Really it seems less about size and more about tenacity. As well as your space and flock dynamics as mentioned. And your personal preference. People say silkies can't free range, mine do everyday, all day long!

One of my silkies is brooding chicks and one of my bigger Orpington girls has it out for her. I didn't think the silkie would be able to hold her own, but she went all psycho and showed them!

But when it seems too much, she leads the chicks away from danger.

Chickens may have bird brains but they aren't completely stupid. They still have survival instincts. Provide lots of areas to escape, visual barriers, and maybe extra feeding stations.

Yes, you can put them together as long as proper protocol is followed in the beginning. Usually a period of look but don't touch and a panic room for the chicks to get away from the the older crew. Once they are grown they should have it all worked out. And plenty of roost space with a way for the silkies to get to it. I have a higher and much lower roost where the new editions start low and work their way up.

Just remember, there is no single right way... except the way that works for you! Sometimes what we thought would work doesn't. We are all here to share those experiences and learn from each other.