New added chickens don't leave coop

[DirkVC]

Hi all, two weeks ago I added 5 new chickens to my flock of 15. They seem to be doing very good and already started laying eggs. The only problem I have is that they stay on their roost until all the other are outside. Then they eat and drink but they never leave the coop. Is there anything I can do to help them adapt?

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. Most likely they are still being punished by your original birds. Make sure they get enough to eat and drink. Eventually they will be accepted - it will take time. Chicken society is frequently cruel.

 

[RonP]

I have the same situation happen every year when I add 2 or 3 pullets.

Almost to the day, it takes 3 weeks before the young ones are allowed out.

Keep food and water in the coop and in the run.

Best if the roosts are in separate areas of the coop also.
I set up a temporary roost for just this reason, and keep it for 6 months.
By then the pecking order is well established.

It's a chicken thing...