Introduce new chicks

[mackielane]

The chicken math is mathing. Somehow we came home today with 4 new babies Anyways we have some 10 week old girls outside already, doing great. When should we introduce these girls to our existing flock (obviously not yet, they are home safe in a brooder). Planning to do introduction through a dog crate in the run. How many days should we take them out during the day and introduce before seeing how they do? Trying to learn ahead of time so we’re ready when it is time. I am a stay at home mom so when it is time to put them all together I can keep a close eye on them. Any help appreciated

 

[ChickenShepherd_6116]

I would do a "see don't touch" method for a couple weeks (or until they mostly ignore the chicks). It's easiest and most affective to do this when the younger chicks are living outside, because then the older chicks will see them 24/7; If you don't want them living outside yet, have them in a separate pen (dog crate will work) for a few hours a day.
After you have done the see don't touch for a couple weeks, let them all together for an hour or so under your supervision every day. Do this a couple times until you feel like they are ok together. Then they can live together permanently as long as there are hiding spots for the chicks and plenty of room. Having a space that the chicks can retreat to if they feel stressed can help too. Also make sure there are several waterers and feeders so no-one is left hungry!

Hope this help!