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First Things First: Wait Until the Chicks Are Ready
As tempting as it is to let the chicks meet your hens right away, you’ll want to wait until your chicks are at least 6–8 weeks old, fully feathered, and big enough to hold their own. Even then, they’ll likely be smaller and lower in the pecking order, so early introductions need to be slow and controlled.
Step 1: Keep Them Separate—But Visible
Set up a "see but no touch" space, like a chick playpen or a wired-off area inside the run. This allows both groups to see, hear, and get used to each other without physical contact.
Keep this setup for at least 1–2 weeks, and watch their behavior. If the older hens seem calm and uninterested—or just mildly curious—you’re on the right track.
Step 2: Create Shared Positive Experiences
Give treats or scatter scratch near the barrier so both the chicks and hens associate each other with good things. This helps reduce tension and eases the eventual transition.
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Step 3: Supervised Meet & Greets
Once everyone seems used to each other, allow short, supervised visits in a neutral space, like a fenced yard or a large open run. Watch closely for aggression—some pecking is normal as they sort out the hierarchy, but if you see full-on chasing, feather-pulling, or pinning, separate them and try again later.
Step 4: Integrate at Night
When the chicks are around 10–12 weeks old and have had a few successful daytime visits, try placing them in the coop at night after the older hens have gone to roost. Chickens are calmer in the dark, and waking up together can help them adjust.
Be sure there’s plenty of space, multiple feeders/waterers, and hideouts so younger birds can escape any bullying during the adjustment period.
Be Patient—It’s a Process
It might take a few days or even a few weeks for the flock to fully accept the newcomers. That’s totally normal. Keep an eye out for signs of bullying, injury, or stress, and don’t be afraid to go back a step if needed.
With time, your flock will settle—and you’ll have a happy, peaceful coop once again.
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