New chickens

[Noellecetta]

I introduced 3 easter egger to my flock. They are about 20 weeks old. There is a little pecking from my others, they are a year old. Not to bad. My question is why are the new ladies staying in the coup ? I have seen them come down the ramp, and one drinking. But I am worried that they are not drinking enough. Has anyone had this happen as well? The 3 newbies are a good size and healthy.

 

[Lacy Duckwing]

It takes about two weeks for new chickens to get settled into a new flock. Them hiding in the coop is perfectly normal, but should be discouraged. You want them to be around the others so they get used to them faster. To encourage them out, you could just force them out, or coach them out with lots of treats like mealworms.
In the meantime, it is very helpful to have more than one feeder and waterer. That way, when the higher ups in the pecking order is at one, the lowers can go to the other.

 

[Noellecetta]

It takes about two weeks for new chickens to get settled into a new flock. Them hiding in the coop is perfectly normal, but should be discouraged. You want them to be around the others so they get used to them faster. To encourage them out, you could just force them out, or coach them out with lots of treats like mealworms.
In the meantime, it is very helpful to have more than one feeder and waterer. That way, when the higher ups in the pecking order is at one, the lowers can go to the other.

Thank you.

 

[rosemarythyme]

You want multiple feeders and waterers spread out, with hiding spots/clutter to break up line of sight in the space, so they can safely use the area and the resources without being harassed: https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/a-cluttered-run.1323792/