Smart Feeder - Light sensor values

[Debby Tutton]

Help,

 

We have 3 Sussex hens of about 4 months and have just got another of about 3 months.

 

The oldies seem to be picking on the newbie as they won't let her in the cube. I've never introduced a hen into an established group and I'm concerned about them establishing a pecking order to the cost of the newbie.

 

As background information we started with 4 chooks but one turned out to be a boy so was returned and swapped for the newbie.

 

Any advice would be gratefully received.

[Egluntyne]

Not a good idea to pitch a single, younger hen in with older ones I'm afraid.

 

Some advice here and here.

[Debby Tutton]

Oh Lord,

 

Is it okay to keep 3 hens together ?

 

I read somewhere that keeping 3 or 5 hens is a problem too ?

[percy049]

Odd numbers are ok to kee together, if that is what you mean. I think it is around 7+ hens when the hen at the bottom of the pecking order is bad (sorry, I can't phrase it properly!)

[Egluntyne]

The numbers aren't the issue, it is the adding of a single younger hen to an older group that is causing the problem. Introduced slowly, and they will all get on fine, with careful management.