question about adding new chicks

[beatrixkiddo]

I have 4-3 weeks old RIRs and I am wanting to get 2-1 week old Ameraucanas. Can I place them in the same brooder together since they are all still relatively young and close to the same age?

 

[Judy]

The only way to know if the older ones will accept the babies is to try it. Reactions vary widely but there will always be some pecking to establish the pecking order. Try it at night or with a bunch of treats as distraction -- and be ready to remove the young ones.

 

[ranchhand]

I've actually done that, twice now. I used an old oven rack to divide the brooder box, just taped in place, for a few days. They could see each other and interact and when I took it out they got along just fine. Just keep an eye on them when you first remove the divider to break up any squabbles.