New with the old...

[kelidei]

I have nine 10 week old chicks. They need to move out of DH's garage! So I have a coop that I can move them into that houses 15 chickens right now that are 8 months old. Mostly pullets but a few cockerels--- very even tempered ones at that. So this is my plan--- the coop has a feed room--- I am thinking about putting the 10 wk olds in there that way they will see each other through the wire mesh door--- and I have a large dog pen that I can put into the run (the pen has a cover) where I can put them during the day. so lots of time to interact but still have protection--- Does this sound like a successful plan? how long would y'all suggest before I allow them to mingle? Thanks!

 

[downtown chick]

I think that you could keep them separated but close. I used that technique for about 3 weeks and they were close in size to the original flock but I had to watch them closely when I finally put them together. The younger flock has a couple of roosters but one of the older hens sometimes really goes after them. She still rules even though they are now much larger and stronger.

Good luck!