Madbird Posted January 8, 2009 Share Posted January 8, 2009 Hi, Ive been offered a couple of older hens - 18months. My 5 girls are all between 28 - 34 weeks old and not laying yet. Aside from the usual introduction methods - is there anything in particular to be aware of when introducing older hens into a younger flock? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snowy Posted January 8, 2009 Share Posted January 8, 2009 Just use the usual precautions! You might have to take it a bit easier - I found that the older ones are quite aggressive because they are already mature, but the younger ones are also prepared to fight as it is their territory I would definitely use seperate accomodation at first, and when you do mix them, be around to break up any bad aggression. Good luck! It can be done, and it's always lovely to get new chickens Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted January 8, 2009 Share Posted January 8, 2009 I've done it a couple of times and as long s you take it slowly, it should be fine. I took my own and Claret's advice **here** and tweaked it a bit. I would definitely advise separate accommodation, for quarantine reasons as well as gradual introductions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chelsea Posted January 8, 2009 Share Posted January 8, 2009 agree with the above. If the intro is slow and gradual you shouldnt encounter many problems at all. Keep them in seperate accommodation (but it would help that the hens could all see each other behind closed run doors), so they can get used to the new arrivals/smell them/check them out etc.... and then let the old girls free range whilst the new girls stay in.....alternate this.....eventually down the line introduce some supervised free ranging together as one flock. Its best not to be rushed.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
