New hens joining our Coop

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HoennerTannie

HoennerTannie

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Hello everyone,
In a week's time we are introducing new laying hens to our existing flock. We currently have 21 birds, 10 of whom are laying eggs. Is it wise to try and blend the two flocks, or should we simply get rid of the old hens (seeing that they lay so little)?
If you recommend keeping them, how long do they need to 'get used' to each other before we combine them? We have one indoor coop, two outdoor runs...
 
Once you get the hens, keep them separated at first so that they can accumulate to the soil and atmosphere of your home. After about a week, let the new hens into the run and lock the other hens you have in the pen so that they can see the run's set up. After about a week, put both groups together and let them figure each other out. This is how I integrate my chickens together, it seems to work. Have fun with your new flock members!
 
HoennerTannie said:
Thanks everyone, I'm excited to learn more! I ordered 20 ready-to-lay hens!!
Click to expand...
Wow you’re going to have a big flock. As the number of old hens to new is very similar you should be ok to integrate them but do separate for a while first as @A.M. Eggs says. Do expect a few scuffles as they establish their new pecking order :thumbsup
 
G'Day from down under HoennerTannie :frow Welcome!

I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun.

BYC has Topic of the Week discussions which I have found to be a great resource, informative and sometimes entertaining; so definitely worth checking out. This one may be of particular interest:
Topic of the Week - Adding New Chickens to the Flock

If you would like to share Pictures and Stories of your flock, you have come to the right place. BYC’ers never tire of these and do not back away slowly or commence eye rolling when the photo album or home videos come out ;)

You might want to also visit the Canadian Thread and pop in and say hello.
 

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