Visiting Neighbors

[berkeleybackyard]

Two households on our corner have urban chickens (four each). We help each other out by "sitting" with their hens when they are on a trip. I was wondering if anyone has tried to combine two flocks for weekends. They would have plenty of room in their yard but maybe a little cramped in the enclosed sleeping area in the coop for the overnight. There would be room in the open air porch with a roost. Would they squabble? Would the visitors lay eggs in the nest box? Just an idea, but it would make it easier for the chicken sitter.

Thanks so much for your help!

 

[Teach97]

bad plan...messes with flock dominance (yes they will fight)...causes stress (no eggs)...worst of all you can transfer disease...yes both flocks are healthy but they have their own flora of bacteria and disease...it is the same when a new teacher comes into a school...they get sick because they don't have the antibodies of that population yet.

 

[sourland]

Not a good idea for all of Teach97's reasons.

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

I agree with Teach97 and it will stress the chickens out beyond belief.

 

[berkeleybackyard]

Thanks everyone -- glad I asked!

 

[UrbanGrower]