New chicks on their way..some advice needed

[Kiwiheather]

Hi everyone. I had a small flock of 4 hens, Over the past year I lost one to unknown causes, one to a hawk and sadly last week, one to a neighbor's dog I have only one sad lonely girl left who is about 18 months old. I ordered 15 rainbow layer female chicks from McMurray's and they should arrive monday. I have a kiddie pool set up for them on my screened patio for the first week. I am wondering what the best way to introduce them to the hen is. The sooner the better, or wait until they are bigger? A few at a time or all at once? She's is not aggressive or broody. She is pretty mellow as far as chickens go I'd say. Is there a chance that she would hurt the babies? I have an 8x5' coop and lined the bottom with hardware cloth today and put in 2' of shavings. It is a fortress! There is also a fenced 50x75 foot area around the coop that I let them out during the day to forage in. How old should they be before I put them out with her? I live in south florida so warmth is not an issue (90 today) I almost feel they'd be safer in the coop because technically, raccoons COULD get on the patio if they really wanted to and there's no way anything could get into the coop. I just want it to be as easy and stress-free as it can for my hen and the babies! Any input is greatly appreciated!!

 

[OreoPlymothRock]

Hello Kiwi, you should wait until they are about the same size to defend themselves from hard pecks and other things. And a raccoon can break through a screen if he's hungry. And I live in FL. too.

 

[OreoPlymothRock]

And by rainbow eggs don't you mean Amerucana or Easter Eggers?

 

[bernaboo111]

do you have a kennel/dog carrier? if so then put the chicks in it and place it in the coop or right outside of it. that way, the large hen can't hurt the chicks and they both have time to get used to each other. leave them in the carrier until the hen acts used to them. don't leave the chicks out in the carrier for to long, i'd say 5-10 mins at the most make sure to put them back in the kiddie pool at night.

 

[Kiwiheather]

And by rainbow eggs don't you mean Amerucana or Easter Eggers?

I got the assortment from McMurrays that says rainbow layers. At least 4 varieties of different breeds that lay colored eggs. It was the first available to ship of all females they had. I have pet screening on the bottom half of the patio because I have two rabbits that have the run of it. I have never had an issue with raccoons but I am sure they are so crafty, if they hear the peeping, they may try harder! Also, since you're in Fl, do you think I need a heat lamp if I have them outside with the temps being so warm here? I am South Florida.. (Broward Co) Thanks!

 

[Kiwiheather]

do you have a kennel/dog carrier? if so then put the chicks in it and place it in the coop or right outside of it. that way, the large hen can't hurt the chicks and they both have time to get used to each other. leave them in the carrier until the hen acts used to them. don't leave the chicks out in the carrier for to long, i'd say 5-10 mins at the most make sure to put them back in the kiddie pool at night.

Good idea~I have a rabbit hutch I am thinking about modifying and using. After looking at all the brooder pics on here though, I am wondering if I should just keep them inside w/ a heat lamp until they are ready for the coop..I am already fretting over the peeps and they aren't even hatched

 

[OreoPlymothRock]

I got the assortment from McMurrays that says rainbow layers. At least 4 varieties of different breeds that lay colored eggs. It was the first available to ship of all females they had. I have pet screening on the bottom half of the patio because I have two rabbits that have the run of it. I have never had an issue with raccoons but I am sure they are so crafty, if they hear the peeping, they may try harder! Also, since you're in Fl, do you think I need a heat lamp if I have them outside with the temps being so warm here? I am South Florida.. (Broward Co) Thanks!

I live in Central Fl. The Tampa Area, and you will still need a lamp even in the warm nights, that is my preference. Correct me if I'm wrong anyone.

 

[TLWR]

Still do a heat lamp for night time.

 

[Kiwiheather]

Thanks everyone...I think it's settled..going to keep them inside with a heat lamp! Post office emailed me they are on their way and should arrive tomorrow! YAY, SO EXCITED

Cannot wait to get the precious box!!!

 

[rachlore]

You, for sure, need a heat lamp at almost all times and I've heard that the best way to introduce chickens to another flock is by putting them in a container next to the other flocks coop with a barrier of wire in between. I got my first shipment of chicks about a month ago too. They are so wonderful to have inside the house. I'm having an amazing experience with mine and i hope yours go the same!