by Kim Berg, CoopCrate staff writer
As a chicken owner, you might find yourself frequently toying with the idea of expanding your flock. More chickens mean more eggs, and your current chickens may enjoy the presence of new companions. If you’re looking to add some additional chickens to your flock, there are some steps you should take to do so safely and effectively.
Step 1 – Quarantine the new chickens
This is a very important first step, especially if you’re introducing adult chickens to the flock. Place your new chickens in a separate coop away from your original flock, that way you can observe them for any signs of disease. You can quarantine your new chickens anywhere from one week to a month. If you plan to handle your new chickens and your old ones, wash your hands in between!
Step 2 – Keep the chickens separated, but in closer quarters
Place the new chickens in their own coop next to the existing coop. You can also place your new chickens in a wire crate for the introduction, whether they are in the main coop or outside of it. This will allow the original flock and the new chickens to safely meet and adapt to each other’s presence. It is best to keep the chickens separated for about a week.
Step 3 – Allow free ranging
If the separated introduction has gone smoothly, it’s time to let the new chickens out to free range with the others. When allowing this free ranging for the first time, be sure to do so in the largest space possible. You’ll want your new chickens to have plenty of room to dodge aggressive maneuvers from the others. Check the fences of your free ranging area and supervise the interactions. If your new chickens are fearful, they may look for an escape!
The chickens will need to establish their new pecking order, which may result in some jostling. Though this is a normal part of the process, watch your chickens for any resulting injuries. If the jostling is persistent, you may choose to reintroduce the new chickens another day.
Step 4 – The official merge
Over the first few days, let your new chickens free range with the others during the day, putting them back in their separate coops (or crate) for the evening. If you are comfortable with the way your chickens are interacting outside, you can eventually let the new chickens follow the others into the main coop. When the sun goes down, they should hopefully roost peacefully together.
Keep an eye on the flock after the new additions are made. Ensure that all chickens are eating and drinking, and pay attention to their egg production. Introducing new chickens to the flock can be stressful, and it can take over a month to fully integrate them. You’ll need to be patient, but your larger flock will be well worth it!