When to can I introduce chics

[barb m]

Hi! I'm in upstate NY and new to chicken raising. I have buffs and black sex links that are 9 weeks old and in the coop. I have 5 more, same breeds, that are 2 weeks behind and still in the brooder. When do you think I can put them all together? Looking forward to belonging to this group! Thanks

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC. Providing there's sufficient space in your run, places for the younger ones to hide from the older ones and multiple feeding stations i would not imagine that there would be too much of a problem introducing them in the next week or so. These links should be able to provide info that should help you.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1069595/introducing-chicks-to-adults#post_16276224

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/introducing-new-chickens-using-the-see-but-don-t-touch-method

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1098683/introducing-new-chickens-to-old-flock#post_16895615

Best wishes

CT

 

[drumstick diva]

the' see but don't touch method,' is usually best - please follow the link CTken has given you.

 

[sunflour]

glad you have joined us.


You have already received info to help with integrating the flock. Once you think you can let them mingle, keep a water spray bottle handy - it really works to stop aggression - just in case.

Would love to get an update on how you accomplish this and wish you quick success in the process.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[barb m]

Thank you all! They are almost the same size. Planning on introduction next week, one it warms up for the younger ones.

 

[barb m]

I did the introduction today. Provided hiding places in the coop. So far, so good. A couple of stand offs, but nothing too bad. One of the 10wk olds seems to think she should be the top hen with the 12 wk olds! Maybe she's a he? She does the neck feather and eye stand offs and then runs away. The buffs seem to care less.