Putting youngsters in the rest of the flock

[tatersgirl913]

I'm wondering when it is appropriate to put your young birds in the with rest of our flock. We let mom hatch her own eggs and have been keeping them separated. The littles are just over 6 weeks old.

This is our first time raising babies so any advice is appreciated!

Blessings!

 

[aggiemae]

I am surprised she hasn't insisted on going out with them by now. If she is an attentive mom and not the low chicken in the flock the chicks should be fined outside with her, just make sure that they can get under cover if there is a problem. If you have a dog crate or similar, try taking them outside in it then opening the door, this way they will know where their homebase it. If your yard doesn't have bushes or other hiding places and momma hen isn't attentive you might need to rig up a smaller door on the portable shelter so that the chicks can get in but a full size hen giving chase can't.

 

[tatersgirl913]

Thank you!