I have 6 hens that are two years old. This spring I built another coop and acquired 7 pullets as one day olds. I kept them separate until they were 17 weeks, then took down the separating fence and let them all go together. But they don't! I thought there would be a couple of days of squabbling and then peace and friendship. Well, it's been three weeks, and we have made no progress. The hens chase the pullets and won't let them in their coop or run, but they go up to the youngsters' yard and eat their food. If the pullets go in the big girls' run and try to eat in there or check out the nest boxes, they are chased out immediately by the first one who spots them. The pullets stick together and are always within a few feet of each other, where the older ones scatter widely. At night, each group goes in its own coop. I have furnished nest boxes for the pullets inside their coop, and so far none has laid an egg. The big girls have not ventured in there either, thank goodness.
So, where do I go from here?
I have no roo at this time. Would one help put an end to this feuding? I kind of want one anyway (I love hearing them crow) but was hoping I would get an "Accidental Roo", you know, a pullet that wasn't! That would have made the decision for me! Chicken, I know! I don't want to borrow trouble. Am I better off without one? I don't especially want to raise baby chicks and get MORE roos that would have to be dealt with.
Any opinions, help, etc. would be appreciated!
So, where do I go from here?
I have no roo at this time. Would one help put an end to this feuding? I kind of want one anyway (I love hearing them crow) but was hoping I would get an "Accidental Roo", you know, a pullet that wasn't! That would have made the decision for me! Chicken, I know! I don't want to borrow trouble. Am I better off without one? I don't especially want to raise baby chicks and get MORE roos that would have to be dealt with.
Any opinions, help, etc. would be appreciated!
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