Mixing New Birds

[meowteri2]

I have 3 adult hens in the coop now and two 12 week old australorps in a 4x3 brooder. I put a addition on the coop and will move the 2 australorps at some point
into the addition. I will keep them seperated but seen by the adults for a break in period. Then remove the screen divider and let them mix.
I found out the feed store has 2 australorps left over and are 12 weeks old. I wanted to get them.
Should I put them in the brooder with the ones I have or just put all four in the divided addition. Whats the best way to integrate them?
Do they fight at 12 weeks old ?

 

[Judy]

Yes, the two groups of 12 week olds will probably fight. Usually you can mix the ages however you want up to about 4 weeks. How badly they will fight, though, you'll only learn by trying. Personally, I'd have another pen set up ready to receive them if I got them. At least at 12 weeks you don't have long til their sizes will be much the same and you can (hopefully) just let them work it out.