One is the Loneliest Chicken

[Pookypoo87]

About two years ago we purchased about two dozen straight run chicks knowing some would be males and some wouldnt make it. We figured we would maybe end up with a dozen females. Through lots of rookie mistakes, plan bad luck, and one chicken hungry dog we ended up with just one after about 6 months.
Hennypenny is still going strong all on her lonesome and laying like a champ but I would love to add a some friends.

I read the big how to on adding chickens to your flock but nothing covered if your current flock is just one. I understand the dangers to new chickens in a flock with agression/pecking order, but how would that work with just one chicken? Would the danger be as great?

i am trying to weigh out if it would be better to quarantine and then introduce one or two adults with her or wait until the next time she goes broody and sneak a couple fertalized eggs under her to hatch out.

 

[boskelli1571]

Good question. If it were me, I think I would introduce a couple of hens to her on her territory. Although they will outnumber her, she has the home

ground advantage.
Let us know what you do and how it worked out for you,

 

[Mutt Farm]

About two years ago we purchased about two dozen straight run chicks knowing some would be males and some wouldnt make it. We figured we would maybe end up with a dozen females. Through lots of rookie mistakes, plan bad luck, and one chicken hungry dog we ended up with just one after about 6 months.
Hennypenny is still going strong all on her lonesome and laying like a champ but I would love to add a some friends.

I read the big how to on adding chickens to your flock but nothing covered if your current flock is just one. I understand the dangers to new chickens in a flock with agression/pecking order, but how would that work with just one chicken? Would the danger be as great?

i am trying to weigh out if it would be better to quarantine and then introduce one or two adults with her or wait until the next time she goes broody and sneak a couple fertalized eggs under her to hatch out.

I agree with @boskelli1571 to introduce a couple hens. I'd suggest noting her breed and personality, finding the best match for step-sisters. Also, enough real estate to share and proper intro. Waiting for updates!

 

[Pookypoo87]

She is an orpington. As for personality, she is bold, daring, and pushy but very docile and friendly with people. She has no issue putting my 60 lb dog in its place but is sweet enough with my toddler that she frequently gets hugs.

i think she would be head chicky if we had others simlply from how she handles the dog. She just knows where the food comes from - mostly and excessively from the me and the tiny human.