Smaller Chicks?

[ChickenFanatic447]

Last week I was lucky enough to get a Cuckoo Maran, Golden Laced Wynadotte, and a Plymouth Barred Rock for free, all of which were newly hatched and adorable. Well, these happened to be my first chickens and although I was completely prepared for these little balls of love, I really wanted to add just a few more to the mix. I just got a Black Australorp, Welsummer, and Ameraucana and am hesitant in adding them into the brooder. The older chicks are one week old and noticeably larger then the new chicks. Should I just toss them in and observe, or is there a special way to put these three into the brooder with the other three. Any help is appreciated.

 

[jenkassai]

This is my first time with chicks as well, so others with more experience may have better / different answers. However, I did mix chicks that were a week apart without any issues. I also later added chicks that were a couple of weeks younger, and they were fine too. I just watched closely at first to make sure there was no bullying going on, and ensured that the youngest chicks had a spot to get away if they were getting picked on, and made sure they were all able to eat and drink without getting picked on. Good luck!

 

[Judy]

Generally you can mix chicks under one month of age without a problem.

 

[ChickenFanatic447]

So would it be fine to throw in even another chick?

I really like these little guys and I have my eye on a Speckled Sussex now. And okay, thank you both for your answers. I'm glad to hear that my chicks can get along relatively well.

 

[wren]

Ah, in my experience one week of difference in age is the limit.

 

[ladyride]

chicken math has struck again