old hens, new chicks

[RAWR]

would it be okay to intro. some new pullets and cockrells into the flock with the older birds??

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
Not until the younger ones are of a size big enough to handle themselves. An introduction period with wire between them at first would be best.
We're creating a small fenced in area inside my coop so that my new little ones can peacefully co-exist with my adult birds. Once the big ones have gone out to free range during the day I'll move the babies to an outside playpen.

 

[RAWR]

Quote:
Not until the younger ones are of a size big enough to handle themselves. An introduction period with wire between them at first would be best.
We're creating a small fenced in area inside my coop so that my new little ones can peacefully co-exist with my adult birds. Once the big ones have gone out to free range during the day I'll move the babies to an outside playpen.

ok, i like that idea

 

[azygous]

I highly recommend keeping the partition in place with a tiny pop hole in it just large enough for the youngsters to go back and forth and too small for the big ones to fit through. I keep this "panic room" in place until they're all finally of the same size and the pecking order is accepted by all. It really cuts down on the bullying when you merge them.

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
Excellent idea.

 

[RAWR]

Quote:
Excellent idea.

i like that too...so many ideas

 

[ellie_may12]

I bought a "scratch pen" from my local feed store. It is about 3x3 and has holes in the wire large enough for the young ones, but too small for the hens. I put it up in my coop, so the pullets can come and go from the pen at will.

Can't wait to pick up another 5 babies this year!