my chicken died and I only had 2

[grandma chick]

I know chickens are flock animals but I don't know the best way to introduce a new chicken.

 

[DuckLady]

Your chicken would probably be happy to have a friend.
I always introduced a new chicken at night, putting her on the roost. Then in the morning, the others usually didn't notice.

 

[Y N dottes]

I can't say I'm very experienced in this area, but I do have some cousins who have added new birds to their flock. From what I've heard, you do NOT want to put the new chickens in right away, but let them be able to get used to each other through a wire fence or something like it. After a few days, not sure how long, while the origial chicken(s) are sleeping, add the new one(s) to the coop. This will keep the stress down on both sides and cut down on some of the drama........I am thinking of expanding my flock and will probably use this system unless I hear otherwise.

 

[Suzie]

You can introduce at night - spray ALL with a vinegar/water solution which does help in them not distinguishing an alien smell from a newcomer - we have tried it with some success.

All the best

Suzie

 

[cary 1973]

my first thought was what killed the other chicken and is it somthing that the new chickens could get and die from or your left chicken may be a carrier. If thats been addressed or like dog attack or old age then i would do intraductions during the day where you can watch and maybe have them seprate for awhile between chain link fence to see how they are then if they seem ok then let them get togeather. good luck. I am also very new to this only had my babies from April this year

 

[Y N dottes]

yeah, I agree. i would wait and watch the chicken thats left for awhile. If it seems normal and healthy (eats well, breathes normal, etc.) I would think it would be fine.