when can i put the chicks in with the hen?

[sydney13]

i know that you are supposed to wait at least a month to move the chicks into the coop with the other hens, but right now i have 1 silkie because i had to get rid of her rooster since he was to loud so she has been calling for him all day and is looking very lonely. Do you think i could put the chicks that i am getting in with her in maybe only 2 or 3 weeks just to get her some friends as quickly as i can?

 

[Gonzo]

I would not, they will probally be killed. I would'nt put 4 week olds in a coop with an established flock either. You'll really want to wait until they're closer in size to the other chickens before putting them out. When you do do it, you'll want to introduce them slowly. I keep the newbies in a puppy kennel in the coop for a few nights before putting the in, and before that, I'll section off my run and put the chicks that are at least 5 weeks old out there during the day. That way they can see each other, and no on can get hurt. I have some of the most sweetest, laid back hens (cochins) that will litterally turn into Satan in the flesh if I try to put a newbie in there. I was shocked when it happened to me.