When to mix younger pullers with older pullers

[mamahen amateur]

I have 4 cross breed 18 week old pullets and 4 wynadotte 16 week old pullets who have been in the same coop and free ranging for about 3 weeks. They get along fine. I have 2 x 9 week old orpingtons that have been seperated by wire in the run for about 2 weeks now - at night I've been putting them in the shed in a box as its rather cold. I'd like to integrate the Orpingtons with the rest of the flock and let them free range now so they can have more room - and be able to sleep in the coop with the others. Do you think 9 weeks is too young? And should I let them start mixing during the day or put them in the coop overnight? I worry if I do - I won't be able to see the older ones pick on them in the morning. The coop is not large enough to seperate inside. The free range area is large and has lots of trees, shrubs, logs, shed and hills to run away and hide in. Thanks!

 

[GitaBooks]

In our flock there is generally no bullying during integration, especially after the chicks are fully feathered. I would introduce them casually, not make a big deal of it, just let them in with the others during feeding and see what they do. This way, the chickens won't make as big a deal of it and will just be thinking about food.
If they act like they've been together their whole lives, they should be fine. Sometimes "teen" chickens can be bullies to younger ones, but they usually get over it quickly.

I think it should work out fine, but I would keep an eye on them at first. I would do it in the afternoon or evening, so that you can watch them.


I hope everything works out! Good luck