Separate bantam coop?

[Chicks Galore3]

I'm getting some bantam silkies and cochins in April, and already have 2 silver sebrights. I'm wondering if a separate bantam coop is a good idea? I'm also getting some Polishes and I know they can get picked on. My coop is built inside the barn, kind of all around and wherever it will fit. There is an enclosed room (About 10'x12'?) within the coop that the chickens don't have access to because there is just junk and old hay in there. However, I was thinking of cleaning it out and making it into a bantam coop. It will take a good amount of work, but if it would benefit the bantams to have a safe haven I'm willing to do it.

 

[crapwagon]

I've seen many people keep all different breed types and sizes together with no problems. I guess it depends on the individual bird. I've personally kept Ducks with bantams and didn't have an issue with it, until i brought in new ducks. I would just be prepared to to remove them if things aren't working out.

 

[azygous]

Adequate space is key to chickens of different sizes getting along.

It's natural for chickens to focus on any that appear to have differences, Polish being favorite targets due to their head feathers, and bantams due to their size. If there's lots of space, any chickens targeted for bullying have space to outrun the bullies, but in a confined space, they're easily trapped and attacked. The confinement also increases stress, leading to bullying.

So, more important than separate coops, would be increasing living space for the entire flock. It can't hurt to have an additional coop and run, though, just in case.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I personally separate mine, bantams act a little different than large breeds sometimes, and can end up bullied. I prefer not to worry. I keep two separate coops, all birds free range in the same area, and my bantam go back to their run whenever they feel overwhelmed by the larger birds.

 

[Chicks Galore3]

Thanks for the advice everyone! I think I will clean out the extra space and either open it up for everybody or just the bantams, depending on what is needed.

 

[azygous]

That's a wise decision. Increasing your options and observing your flocks to see what's required for their well-being is a prudent step in the right direction.

 

[chicken8fan]

HELP!!!
I'm just getting bantam chicks from tractor supply co. and i don't have any form of separation from the big girls. another problem is that the bantams are mostly roosters with ONE HEN!!!!!!
that is a huge problem. the starter coop we have abandoned would do for a few weeks, but that plus the month before our chicks get into middle age, I need help!
the foundation is in a spot that isn't suitable to work, and I am TOTALLY NOT PREPARED FOR THIS! i don't have a great setup for the chicks and the old girls, particularly millie, is a brat.
she is responsible for fleck's comb, which is missing a huge bloody chunk.
thanks!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I have kept bantam roosters with my large fowl, they hold their own. Your girl might be in trouble. How do you know what sex they are? Are they older?

If you already have an aggressive hen it's best not to add them, she could kill them. Your options are separate housing or don't get them, and one hen will be harassed and mated too much by all those males. Sorry, I would rethink your plans.