Which group is more likely to accept a newcomer?

[mrsengeseth]

One flock of 4 seventeen week old girls of mixed breeds....or a flock of seven bantam 4 week old silkies?

the newcomer is a questionable age RIR hen.

of course they won't be brought together till after a period to be sure of her health.

What do you think? If she's broody, do you think she'll take to the chicks better? If she's laying do you think the big girls (who aren't laying yet)will give her grief? Do you think the big girls would gang up on her? Do you think she'd attack the 4 week olds?

 

[silkiechicken]

If she is a hen, put her with the ones about her size. She may get picked on as odd one out but it is safer than putting her with chicks that she can kill. Even if she was broody, chances are slim she will adopt month old chicks. If she is older than 17 weeks, like a real like year old hen, she may just take over the flock of pullets too.

 

[mrsengeseth]

do you think she'd be overly aggressive towards the 17 week olds?

 

[bantamW8farm]

as a general rule, bigger birds will bully smaller birds. There are exceptions within breeds. Keep a close eye on the contact and reaction. Isolate those in the lowest pecking order until they are larger and more easily merged into the flock. Yes, you may have to play momma and provide a heat lamp, etc.... but they will always remember you and come willingly to your friendly face. Silkies are great for human bonding. They are very sweet and make good parents for any chicks they hatch. good luck