When to add chicks in with hen?

[Fergie]

I have one 3 y.o. golden laced wyandotte hen. I bought chicks about 6 weeks ago, and I am wondering how to handle transitioning the chicks into the coop with the hen? They see each other outside for a few hours every day. I have an outside pen the hen cannot get into. She does hang out with them quite a bit. We did let her in with them a few times and mostly she just hung out with the chicks and watched them. But, she did peck at them a little. I want my chicks in the coop because they are outgrowing their brooder box. But I don't want the hen to hurt them. How do I do this?

I've seen the posts that recommend placing up a barrier or fence and dividing the coop in half. I could try that.

I was also wondering if it'd be better to have my hen go stay with a neighboring flock of two hens while my chicks get bigger.

Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[kimb]

I recommend constructing a barrier in the coop so that they can safely 24/7 observe each other... leave them separated for at least 2 weeks (IMO) ... and then you can just try letting them all out together when your around to supervise ... but i've found that if I keep them separated for at least the 2 weeks they all seem to get along quite well - if not, separate them again.

staples and some chicken wire go a long way

I would not send the hen away - ultimately your going to need to introduce them at some point, if she's the lone hen she probably is lonely but doing what chickens do "establish pecking order" ... but she can do that safely through the fence for the time being

good luck!