Question on how to integrate new chicks into a (very small) flock

[lbartsch]

Hello Chicken Friends,

I have three two year old hens (1RIR, 1SLWyandotte & 1EE) but I really need more eggs so I'd like to get two more chicks but I am afraid to try to integrate them into the group I already have. The EE had to spend 3 weeks inside once after an injury (from an interrupted raccoon attack) and it was awful to get the others to accept her back. They eventually did but she still gets picked on and shoved out of all the good treats or sunning spots.

Any ideas how to bring in one to three more chicks without any murders?

Thanks,
Lynn in Oakland

 

[hhiner]

I was just wondering the same thing! I hope you get an answer soon.

 

[Den in Penn]

I'm an advocate of a slow introduction. Raise the chicks where they can be seen by the others and still be separate until they are old enough to defend themselves or have the room to get away. Then allowing them time during the day to free range together. After a few weeks of that putting them in the same coop with the biggest issue is usually just who sleeps where.

 

[nbenevento]

Here are my thoughts; first, make sure it the new chicks are old enough and big enough to defend themselves. Don't throw a few week old in with the old ones. Second, don't get just one and throw her in either. It won't be so bad if you have several new girls. I have 2 coops and runs that are connected together. New birds go in one side and the rest get to know them through a fence for a few weeks. Even still when combined, there is still a sorting of the pecking order but its not back at all. I have also just thrown new (full grown) birds into the mix and all have survived, maybe a little worse for the experience though.

 

[LittleRedCoop53]

Hi~
I have a little banty hen who likes to go broody a lot....and so after letting her sit on fake eggs for a few weeks and the right timing with the grange co-op getting chicks in.... i bought a few chicks and slipped them into the nest, removing the eggs when she out ....what a surprise she had when she returned (She took right to them, she's a great little momma), i did seperate her and the babies into a large flight cage, where the flock could still see her and the chicks ....so when it came time to join the flock it went smooth,( at first i let them free range together during the day)... they do fuss over who sleeps where. haha Good luck with your chicken~

 

[Lovemyvtchicks]

Hi,

How awful do I feel? Three of my four year old chickens killed by a dog. This would not have happened, maybe, had I not left the bigger coop door open. The chickens seemed to like it though and would run through each door like a game.I was home and thought it would be OK. So I have one left
I guess trying to get her winter cuddle buddies, I could start with chicks, I just need to keep them separate, right?
Also, I am going to extend our secure run and only let them in the open fenced area when we or our dogs are out there

Sound like a Plan? I wish I didn't feel so bad, I can just cry thinking about it. The dog owners gave me the money I asked for but
really, my heart is getting old for this.