Solitary chicken - need advice

[Liz_1010]

So I recently got 3 hybrids whom have setting in extremely well and I love to bits, I have an eglu go as I plan on getting more chooks at some point, however Iv just been given a cube and massive run with extention ect, (the girls get free range most days but not if I'm away all day) now the cube is ideal for when I get more chooks and To keep hold of the eglu go would be a bonus for quarantine ect.

 

Now my query is what's the best age to introduce new chooks into my current flock, they are still quite young at pol

Also is there any point in clipping their wings? Iv heard that it doesn't stop them from flying about?

 

Tia x

[Beantree]

Hi Liz. We don't mix youngsters until they are laying. At that point they come off rearer pellets and go onto layers as well. They are well developed and can fend better for themselves. It is very important that when adding extra birds you add extra run at the same time. Otherwise the established will feel their territory has been invaded and defend it accordingly. This can also be done by removing part of the established birds run for a few months and then returning it when the newbies arrive. Also add extra feeders and drinkers to diffuse potential aggression areas.

 

We don't clip wings. A laying hen of any breed isn't as flighty as it was as a pullet. Clipping wings removes a primary defence mechanism as well. Of course only one wing is clipped, just to destabilise them. If you clip both they just flap faster and can still fly.

[Liz_1010]

Brilliant thank you, Iv got the 2 runs so I'll keep the newbies in quarantine for a bit but still in sight.

I didn't plan on getting anymore chooks quite so soon however garage and shed space is becoming more of an issue so I won't be able to store the spare run for as long as planned (and hub won't let me have another shed)