New chicken in the flock

[jools22]

hi all. How easy is it to introduce a new hen to the flock. Im thinking of adopting a rather neglected austolorp from my friends niece as she has lost interest in it. They arnt even collecting her eggs anymore so im wondering what impact if any would that have. I would be interested in any feedback on this thankyou

 

[Layin Eggs]

Anytime you introduce a new bird to your existing flock you should quarantine it from the rest for at least a month. Maybe if you can set it up so they can see each other but not close enough to transfer any diseases it may possibly be carrying.

 

[chookchick]

That is sooo nice of you to want to give that poor bird a better home. Can you tell us more about her living situation--is she an only bird now? She will probably have to go through quarantine--which means completely separate for a month. It would be nice for her to have some company (another from old flock) during that time. Then she (they?) needs to be visible but separated by wire from the new flock for at least two weeks before introduction. Watch closely to make sure that no blood is drawn at intro time.