When to combine groups

[PotterWatch]

I have three chicks who are 3-4wks old and just bought two more that I think are about 2-2.5wks. How long should I keep the new ones separate from the other three? TIA!

 

[Jennyhaschicks]

Great question. I was just thinking about asking the same thing although mine will be around 3 weeks apart.

 

[PotterWatch]

Anyone else have a suggestion on how long I should keep them separate? I just want to make sure that my new babies don't have anything they could give to my old babies. Thanks!

 

[crtrlovr]

You'll also need to be careful for what your older chicks can give to your new chickies: like a poke in the eye! Those little guys are fascinated with eyeballs (poutry or human). I was going to try putting 7 Black Australorp chicks in with the 14 4weeks and 3 weeks old chicks, but the 3 wk old RIRs were too curious about the little guys and started the pecking business. I pulled the BAs out & put them in another brooder until they can grow and start asserting their own personalities.