Wonder if I should try integrating sooner? I've always waited until about 16 weeks. Both flocks have been separate, but can see each other through fence for about 2 weeks, then free range together and then open the door between the runs to make one big run to integrate. I have a coop on each end of a shared run which can be split.
Right now the chicks are in the smaller coop/run area and my 8 layers are in the bigger coop/run. They can see each other through the fence which is separated by a gate which can be opened to allow for one big run. So maybe let them stare each other down for 2 weeks and then open the separating door wide enough for only the chicks to get through, but not the big hens?
My girls can't free range anymore b/c of our predator problem though, so chicks would be constantly in sight and mind and in the big girls territory.
Thoughts?
ETA: My chicks are 7-8 weeks now
As long as they've seen each other for a week ir two, I'd let the chicks out. Having the ability to get back to their own coop and run is definitely a good idea.
When I integrated my chicks in the past, I didn't have that option. I would open the connecting door at night, and the next day everyone was together and fine.