Still learning in N. Idaho

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Amy B75

In the Brooder
Apr 22, 2024
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Hi there, I'm 3 years in to being a chicken keeper with a small flock of 11 (was 12...) Two-year-old farm store chicks, so no roos the first time around. But, I just brought home 8 chicks, local farm variety, so I'm sure I'll get some boys this time. Its been alot of fun so far and I look forward to learning how to integrate my new flock with the old, as well as many other useful tips.
 
Hello and welcome to BYC! :frow

So glad you decided to join us. Make sure the chicks are about 3 months old before mixing. You need to integrate slowly over a couple few weeks. What I usually do with young chicks is keep them in a cage or separate space in the run with the chickens. Everybody sees, nobody touches. 5 week old chicks can stay like this until 3 months old. You can let the chicks out in the run when the chickens are out free ranging. Then on mixing day I put out extra food and water stations so the older birds don't guard them all. Give the chicks hidy places, levels, just places to escape to. Watch them carefully for that first week to make sure no blood is shed. If one of the older birds is being a big bully, I cage them for several days to allow the youngsters to adapt. It takes several months to fully integrate.

Best wishes with your flocks!
 

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