Yes, I would say more than the minimum might be needed if all 33 birds run together. I have read the same thing about them recognizing other birds. I know when I had 2 young turkeys and one past away during the night, that the other one sat on top of the dead one crying, and once I removed the body, he still acted sad for a while. I have had chickens do the same thing. Hopefully your girl will be alright.Well I certainly wouldn't mind adding more leghorns to the flock!![]()
I've integrated a few pairs to the flock before, I really don't like adding the minimum number, I prefer adding 5 or more, things go a little more smoothly that way. I've read somewhere that chickens can recognize up to 100 different faces. So she would definitely notice since I only have 33. When I have more time I'm going to look for the guy you've mentioned, I have some questions. I can't really take any more in until spring as I don't have the space, so there's no rush in getting some, I just want to find a good breeder, or someone that has leghorns with strong blood lines. Thanks for your advice!