When to introduce 4 wk olds with 8 wk olds?

[megsnoel]

HI

I have two 4 week old chicks and two 8-9 wks olds that have been out in the coop. When can I introduce the new chicks into the coop? Thanks

 

[PunkinPeep]

My experience is: the sooner the better.

I would put the little ones in a cage or something, to start with, and then do some supervised, uncaged "visitations" to see how they handle it. I have been able to integrate 2 weekers with 6 weekers before, without incident. But you have to watch them and go with your gut on whether they're ready.

 

[Happy Chooks]

Quote:
I agree. I've integrated 6 week olds, 2 week olds and 1 week olds all together without any problems. Just stuck them in the brooder all together and kept an eye on them. No problems at all. I was worried about the little ones the most, but it was hilarious, they would just run right under the older ones.

 

[rhondaa]

Now or you could have done it sooner. i find it is easier with chicks then hens. I have put in 4w olds with 2 and 3 months and know problem. The problems have been when i have put the chickens that got old enough in with the laying hens.... agh thats when you will have problems!