When can I integrate my younger chicks with the older ones?

[atterac]

I have 8 chicks- mix of roo's & hens that are about 5-6 weeks old. We just got 5 more hens that are 2 days old. I was hoping to put them all together in the coop with heat lamp when the babies are 4-6 weeks. They will likely outgrow their current brooder at that point.
Any suggestions would be helpful!
Nicole

 

[BScott03]

I am curious to see what responses you get as well because I am fixing to be in the same situation!

 

[GoldieChicken]

Hi Atterac,

I generally begin to incorporate my age groups slowly - watching their behavior. From what I have seen, it isn't so much the age but the size and aggression that matters. You don't want larger chickens picking on smaller ones. I have some orpingtons that are only 8 weeks old that are aggressive enough to run right up to a grown Rhode Island Red hen and pick a fight with her. Mind you, they don't win, but you don't want anyone hurt as pecking order is established. I've done some experimenting and have found that if I keep my sizes about the same, I usually avoid fighting.

 

[atterac]

Thank you! The first batch of chicks were varied in size, but they all seem to be holding their own okay. The bigger birds are currently about pigeon size & our newest babies are teeny- so it won't be for a little while. I guess if we integrate while supervised at first that would be the best bet!

 

[graciesmum]

Sorry to jump on a thread but I am going to habe a similar problem, I have 5 Loham browns that are around 18 months, I have just got 2 3 week old legbars and 1 4 week old lavender pekin, my lavender is not ever gona be the same size as she is a bantam, so how would I introduce her?