Introducing pullets to hens

[4flock]

I've got two pullets approaching the 8 week mark that seem big enough to be moved. I have them in our make-shift brooder which is an XL dog kennel all dolled up with bird necessities. I have been told it's best to introduce them slowly. So we have the brooder inside the "run" area so the birds can be with each other but the bigger Hens can't beat up on the pullets. We did this once before when we had a hen get sick for a week. Let her in the pen in the brooder for a 2 days and then let her back with the others in the flock and it was peachy keen. With the new pullets what would be a good timeline for keeping them protected from the big girls before letting them move in 100%?

 

[TooCheep]

Looks like you are practicing the "Look but don't touch" method of introducing new flock-mates.

Sounds like they've been able to see each other for a while? If so, they may be able to mix now. If not, I'd give them a few days to get used to seeing each other.

To improve the odds of a smooth introduction, I'd give the small ones a way to retreat if they are picked on too much (some pecking order spats are inevitable). I'd either (a) leave the kennel open with a doorway that only the smaller ones can get into or (b) put plenty of clutter in the run which gives the smaller ones places to hide.

A cluttered run​

 

[4flock]

Great tips, thank you!