How do I integrate chicks into a flock?

[ChickenShepherd_6116]

I have 3 adult hens (one is pretty mean, an ISA Brown), and 6 pullets (6wks old). I want to integrate them into the flock soon but I'm not sure how to do so safely, especially with the mean hen. The hens and chicks have been sharing several walls with each other for a couple weeks now. The adults run size is 301.438 sq ft. The chicks will have access to a small coop that the adults can't get into.
Also, the adults eat a feed with whole seeds, can the chicks have that? (no calcium added) How would I transition them from chick starter crumbles to a whole seed food? Should I have a mini feeder inside the chick coop for them? I will have two big feeders in the run.
To make things easier, should I transition the whole flock to Cluck & Co. Starter Crumbles until the chicks start laying? (I will ofc provide calcium on the side). Or should I wait until the chicks start laying before I integrate them, and then feed them all C&C layer pellets?

Thanks for the help!

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

If they have been see-no-touch for a while you can integrate them slowly by letting them all for an hour or so in the yard (some place much bigger than the run if you can) or let them out in the run but take Miss Meany Pants out while you do it. Make sure there is plenty of clutter for the littles to hide behind. Feed everyone chick starter for now.

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

I would supervise these interactions, esp if you choose to leave the mean hen in. Chickens will kill other chickens, esp if the submissive one can’t get away. It will take longer than an hour in the yard but drawing blood brings a whole host of issues for the pecked bird and opens it up for bullying from it’s own brood mates.

 

[ChickenShepherd_6116]

My chicks and adults have been sharing the same run for about 4-5 days now and they are doing very well. I haven't seen any pecking that's concerning. They have two different coops (one for the chicks, one for the adults) and I want them to start sharing a coop soon. How do I get the chicks to sleep in the adult coop at night? The chicks spend a lot of time in their coop during the say, should I still keep the chick coop out as somewhere for them to hide during the day?

 

[rosemarythyme]

When you're ready for them to move in with the adults, close up or remove the chick coop so it's not an option for them. You may need to manually put them in to the adult coop for a few nights to get them used to the idea of going in there to sleep.