Whether to add new chickens

[JulieCB]

We raised four chicks in spring 2020 and all have happily co-existed. In the last month we have lost our two Buff Orpingtons leaving a RR and Australorp. I am uncertain whether to add additional chickens at this time. From what I've read, integration can be a lengthy process and may be particularly problematic during molting season which we are approaching. My question is whether my remaining chickens are likely feeling lonely at the loss of their flockmates and would benefit from some new company, or whether the new company would make them more unhappy. I'm in Central Virginia and would be adding 8 week old pullets. Our coop is 5'x6' and we have two runs, 8'x16' enclosed and 16'x40' open. They do not free range. Advice welcome.

 

[The Moonshiner]

More chickens is always the right answer.
I would since you are down to two. I mean what if you lose another one? A lone hen wouldn't be good.

 

[GirlsHuntToo]

I think it will be ok - do you have a heater running into your chicken coop??

 

[JulieCB]

I think it will be ok - do you have a heater running into your chicken coop??

We have heaters we install in the winter but the weather here is very mild this time of year. It's still in the 70s during the day, getting down to the mid-50s at night. But we can install a heater if needed.

 

[Mrs. K]

"Well that is too bad (finding a dead chicken) BUT now we can get chicks!"

If you add two chicks, to two it should not be too bad. What I would and have done very successfully, is to put the chicks in the main coop/run. Letting the older chickens out into your second run? This lets the chicks explore the new area without being chased. At night put them in a dog crate, in the coop. Do this 2-3 days, then in the late afternoon, let the older girls in.

Make sure you have two or three food bowls, situated in different spots, hidden from the main bowl.

Mrs K

 

[JulieCB]

"Well that is too bad (finding a dead chicken) BUT now we can get chicks!"

If you add two chicks, to two it should not be too bad. What I would and have done very successfully, is to put the chicks in the main coop/run. Letting the older chickens out into your second run? This lets the chicks explore the new area without being chased. At night put them in a dog crate, in the coop. Do this 2-3 days, then in the late afternoon, let the older girls in.

Make sure you have two or three food bowls, situated in different spots, hidden from the main bowl.

Mrs K

Thank you. Great ideas.