Sole chicken

[megnehez]

Hi there, I have one chicken (of 12) that contracted a virus, leaving her with bone malformations. She was on steroids and got a little better, decent appetite etc, but the flock senses her weaknesses and head honcho goes right for her. She's temporarily a house chicken now, but I have no problem getting a couple friends for her. Question is, when are chicks big enough to combine with my singleton? In the process of building a low-to-ground coop for her, as I'm unsure she'll fully recover. Any advice appreciated.

Thank you!
Meg

 

[Lacy Duckwing]

Three months of age is what I suggest for introducing chicks to adults. It might be helpful to set up a kennel in the coop so she's still with her flock, but they can't peck her.

 

[megnehez]

Three months of age is what I suggest for introducing chicks to adults. It might be helpful to set up a kennel in the coop so she's still with her flock, but they can't peck her.

Good idea, thank you!

 

[aart]

Three months of age is what I suggest for introducing chicks to adults.

I've found that brooding in the coop and integrating young(4-6wks) works best, but it takes some prep.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/integrating-new-birds-at-4-weeks-old.72603/

It might be helpful to set up a kennel in the coop so she's still with her flock, but they can't peck her.

Good idea!