What can I put in my run to help chicks hid from older flock during integration? Clutter? Hiding spots?

[5 Points Wingfeather]

I made an open bottom wire cage about the size of a rectangular coffee table and set it up on bricks so chicks could get under but adults couldn’t. When they are inside everyone can still see each other and interact but safely. It also allows chicks ability to come and go at will. That worked really really well for me.

 

[Missyschix13]

I have a old tire (they love that) a wood ladder from an old swing set (bolts removed), some logs, and they always have the under side of the coop to run to.
But I agree a wire pen is great idea to keep everyone safe about still able to see each other. And only let them out to intermingle when you can supervise and they've had time to get used to each other.

 

[Lacy Duckwing]

What can I use as clutter or hiding spots for my chicks in a small ish run to keep them
Safe during integration process with my 15 weeks old pullets? Give them a place to hide and get away if needed. What works well for this that I may have lying around. I need ideas to get this right. My chicks are going on 3 weeks.

I had a stick fort in my run that my new additions hid in.

But I strongly suggest no hiding places. What happens when they can hide, is they never learn the pecking order and that can lead to problems longer. The best thing to do is remove all hiding places and let them learn the pecking order. They're the age I move new birds in at. Just give them two weeks to adjust, and they'll be fine.

 

[3KillerBs]

I had a stick fort in my run that my new additions hid in.

But I strongly suggest no hiding places. What happens when they can hide, is they never learn the pecking order and that can lead to problems longer. The best thing to do is remove all hiding places and let them learn the pecking order. They're the age I move new birds in at. Just give them two weeks to adjust, and they'll be fine.

I never remove the clutter from my coop and run. It's always there to help the chickens work out their social issues -- letting subordinate birds show their acceptance of the top birds' dominance by breaking contact and getting out of sight.

 

[Aunt Angus]

I never remove the clutter from my coop and run. It's always there to help the chickens work out their social issues -- letting subordinate birds show their acceptance of the top birds' dominance by breaking contact and getting out of sight.

I don't, either, unless it's in MY way. I am adding stuff to my foraging yard over the next few weeks, just because they like having all the "playground equipment" to play on.