My eco solution to rat problems

[PeakyMelbChicks]

Hi 👋 I am trying to introduce 2 new approx. 18week pekin bantams to my existing flock of 5 smaller slightly younger Pekin bantams (10-16 weeks). The hens in the existing flock are smaller than the new hens so the 2 new hens are dominant - they have been overly bossy, guarding the food etc. I introduced them for a week before combining, have two feeders/waterers and everything seemed a bit tense but ok - normal pecking order stuff. By night 3 the new hens started roosting early, pecking any hens that entered straight out of the cube and guarding the door so no other hen would go in! I read I should try re-introducing the new hens one at a time over a couple of days. I have separated one in the run today, the other one left with the flock does seem less bossy and eventually settled in the cube tonight after some squabbling but without kicking out any of the smaller hens. Is this the right approach - does anyone have any other suggestions??? Thank you in advance!

[mullethunter]

In my experience the younger hens (especially if they’re closer to 10wks than 16wks) are unlikely to hold their own against the older ones until they get to POL and their hormones kick in. 

If they’re not too mean to each other then maybe leave them be all together and just pop the littl’uns in the house at night. If there is bad bullying and you can’t do that then maybe keep the separate for a bit longer until the little ones are a bit older.

[Patricia W]

The recommendation is to quarantine for 2 weeks in sight of one another as it can take that length of time for nasties to develop. Also gives more time for them to get used to the sight, sound, and smell of the others.  There is an excellent article on smooth integration by Clare Taylor on her website.  Www.claretaylor.com.  Sorry, can’t make it a click link! 

[Cat tails]

https://www.claretaylor.com/articles