Well, this is as a good a place as any to post my question, as well.
I need some advice on integrating my flock. My HUSBAND wanted to let our broody Cochin hatch some eggs, so we got some fertilized RIR eggs from a friend. We have 1 Cochin and 5 Red Stars. The Cochin is at the bottom of the pecking order.
Only one egg hatched so we put her and the newbie in the shop in a nursery/brooder. The first chick is now 8 weeks old.
Since there was only one, and we didn't have a broody hen anymore, he had his friend hatch us TWO more RIR's. They are now in the shop in the nursery/brooder and are 4 weeks old.
I want to introduce the 8 week old and Cochin mama back to the 5 Red Stars. I've been trying, but those Red Stars are aggressive. We have an open, fenced large run with a completely enclosed run inside of that, with the coop inside the enclosed run. The Red Stars like to sleep on a perch, outside in the locked run at night. So, I've been putting the 8 week old and the Cochin in the locked coop (door off automatic open).
Then, at 5am before I leave for work, we kick the Red Stars out of the enclosed run and open the door to the coop so mama and 8 week old can be safe inside the inner run and have access to the coop. But, they all are able to see each other and interact. It's been interesting, to say the least. This is a hassle. When can I introduce them? Is 8 weeks too young? Also, I guess I'll let the 4 week old live in the shop until they are almost full grown which will be in dead winter.
I really bombed this one. I need advice!
Thanks! Sorry I hijacked your thread.