Wonderful article! Gives me hope. I am currently about 3 weeks into trying to integrate a beautiful Barred Rock Hen into my small flock (4) She came from the exact same situation, abandonment by previous owner when they moved. A friend of mine was working at the house, saw her all alone & called me. She has bonded with me & spends a lot of time in the house when the stress of the other girls gets to her. (& ME!) Last night she spent her first night sleeping in the large coop & there was no bloodshed! Taking it slowly, but there is hope!
this is a wonderful example of how to integrate. I find some examples seem rushed. I think it’s so important to slowly introduce our girls to each other. Thanks so much
Though I only have two hen and a new one to integrate this article has given me direction. It was what I needed to hear as I integrate my new little hen into the flock of two. I understand it takes time and patients. Great article thank you.
nice article, well written. I have added a single adult hen to an established flock in a similar fashion. See but no touch after quarantine, adding chicken to the roost when it’s dark and mingling with the flock under supervision works ( at least for me) well. Few scuffles but no war, takes a little time but well worth it!
Mahalo for the thoughtful tutorial and sharing of your story. I will definitely refer to the useful information when integrating myself. Best of luck to you and your beautiful flock.
thank you for the detailed week by week synopsis of how you made this unique integration work. I especially liked the safety solution ideas that you implemented. I will definitely be utilizing some of your ideas as I am attempting a single integration currently. So glad I stumbled upon your article!