The Poultry Keeper

Timbo · Joined: 03 Mar 2006 Posts: 206 Location: Cranfield, Beds.

I'm wondering what sort of age you can introduce pullets to the main chook run. Other than the different foods they eat initially and potential bullying, I can't see a problem with introducing them at about 12 weeks old but maybe someone with a bit more experience can help me here...

Thanks,

Tim

mojo · Posted: Mon Mar 06, 2006 9:07 pm Post subject:

i usually intermix by size rather than age

summayah · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 4289 Location: luton

I had a different approach, I have always had large and small girls together ~ one of my youngest girls was a lf orpington and she was much bigger than say the eldest who was probably one of the pekins ~ but the pekin let all of the big ones know that she might be small but she was still going to be higher up the social ladder than them and if she stood on her tip toes with her neck stretched out really far she could almost reach their beaks.
I honestly never had any problems at all, but I think when I started I had a couple of large girls and then within a week or so I got 4 smaller girls, so there was always a mix and the first girls hadn't really established themselves strongly enough to make it difficult for the new comers.
I didn't just throw them in and say 'off you go, get on with it'. I would let them mix at free range time in the afternoon, when I would stay out with them and watch for any potential problems. They would then all be put to sleep together and in the morning I would be waiting for the door to open with a handful of corn to distract anyone who wanted to cause a bit of friction. I think I used that ploy once ~ and must have had possibly 6 or 7 introductions of new girls, plus broodies with their chicks.
I know my method is a little unconventional but it has worked for me. But listen to those with years of experience, in preference to me.

Timbo · Joined: 03 Mar 2006 Posts: 206 Location: Cranfield, Beds.

OK thanks for the information. Since the run only has one Black Rock in it, I don't see too many problems looming. I will plan to introduce around 12 weeks I think (the reason for the 'hurry' is I have some replacement eggs coming for the end of this month and will need the chicks housing vacated).

I've got 6 Buff Orpington eggs and 6 Black Maran on the way so I'm really looking forward to the next incubation session!

Tim

summayah · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 4289 Location: luton

Good luck with the new eggs, Timbo,keep us updated on their progress, please

Timbo · Joined: 03 Mar 2006 Posts: 206 Location: Cranfield, Beds.

Will do Summayah