Newchick

[rooster363]

We got a new chick today we already have 2 beautiful 7 week old barred rock chickens I know they will peck at the new for the pecking order but they seem to be getting along pretty good there already sleeping together should I just leave them be and keep an eye on them or should I pull the new chick out for a couple of week

The new chick is 3 weeks old

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

I would supervise them - a 3 wk. chick is much behind 7 weeks olds. especially since there is only one new one, and several older. Chicks can be ruthless and may attack the newbie clear out of the blue, even though things seem to be going fine. It wouldn't stand a chance. Sometimes till the wait till night to cause trouble. Generally integration is handled by the "see but, don't touch" method. where a partition is put in the coop/run so new and old can see each other but, not injure them. After a period of time the established flock won't show much interest in the new one and they can be allowed short periods together with supervision.

It is generally better to introduce several chicks to the older group. They are less likely to bring on trouble than a lonely chick. You can put "Integrating new bird" in the search box for more information.

 

[Cynthia12]

Yes, might be a good idea to separate them for a while, where they can see each other. Getting used to seeing each other seems to help a bit.