2009 Omlet cube and run for sale

[Minnie&Moose]

I'm ready to begin introducing our new hens to the existing 4. However, 3 of the existing birds are moulting so I was wondering whether I should delay introductions until after they've completed their moults to avoid stressing them any further - any advice/suggestions most welcome. Thanks.

[Space Chick]

Do they seem stressed? If they do then maybe worth waiting. However, I have successfully done intros during moults where the hens have been as happy as usual

[Minnie&Moose]

Thanks for the encouragement Space Chick - maybe I'll let them have a bit of time out free-ranging tomorrow and see how it goes.

[Jools]

Good plan, the more room they have to suss each other out, the better Just be prepared to take it very slowly, or to wait until everyone is fully feathered again if there are any problems. Moulting is a stressful time, as you say, and any pecking will draw blood more easily from bare flesh or new feathers. Hope it works out for you - let us know how you get on

[Minnie&Moose]

Well, their first short free-range together seemed OK. As usual the top hen barged past everyone into the newbies' run to check out their food supplies, no. 2 chicken threatened both new girls but didn't actually touch them, and then the top hen came out, jumped on each hen in turn and then got on with stuffing her face! So only a few ruffled feathers and the odd squawk or 3. Will be interesting to see whether it's as relaxed when they next meet up.