Using Bantams in the raising of Large Fowl chicks

[Redhead Rae]

I have 7 Bantam pullets (Bantam Cochin/Chocolate Orpington) and 1 cockerel, Tiny, that is even smaller than the pullets that I am keeping in the paddock with my main flock, but in their own PVC run. I am keeping them separate because they are itty-bitty and I think my LF Cochin cock will crush them if he tried mating them. I've been cycling feathered out chicks through their pen and the pullets are GREAT with the chicks they teach the chicks manners without being mean to them. Tiny is also great with them. This also gives the chicks an introduction into the flock as well. The pullets and Tiny are 4 months old at this point, so I'm not sure if things will change as they become more sexually mature.

Has anyone else done something like this? I'll be watching to make sure they don't turn nasty to the chicks once they start laying, but for now, it seems to be working.

 

[tacothechicken]

I'm doing this whith a young polish cockeral and 2 younger pullets! I love how they teach manners while also getting each other going and able to handle youngerlings energy! And I think it teaching our boy how to handling caring for others at a younger age so he can dress to impress once big enough to handle our older ladies