We bought our first 6 hens today. Five are 16 weeks old (2 Cochins, 2 Dominiques, 1 NH Red) and one is a 1-year-old Cochin Bantam. How long should we keep them apart in the coop before we let them comingle? We have them separated into groups based on who "grew up" together. Groups are in crates, visible to other groups, inside of the coop. Also, how long should we keep the hens closed up in the coop? I have read that it's best to keep new chickens in their new home for 3-4 days before letting them out so that they get familiar and comfortable enough that they want to return "home". Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!
