Merging Two Flocks

johnhallford

In the Brooder
Oct 21, 2024
15
30
39
Questions for the more experienced chicken keepers here.

I have two coops which are side-by-side and separated by chicken wire. I want to combine both into a single flock and open the doors between the two coops.

Pen 1 has 17 hens and 2 roosters, and Pen 2 has 15 hens and two roosters. The roosters in Pen 1 grew up together as did the two in Pen 2, so they get along between them; however, its no surprise, the roosters from each pen don't like each other and try to fight between the wiring. It seems clear I will be unable to combine the entire flock.

The roosters in Pen 1 can be aggressive and have attacked me several times. I've had a little field goal practice as the dominant one came after me several times. Because of this, I'm ready to get rid of the roosters in Pen 1 and let the two in Pen 2 take over their duties.

This means I will have a flock of 31 hens and two roosters. Knowing this, do you have any words of wisdom before I commit to sending the first roosters to the freezer and opening the doors between the two runs? Thank you for any advice and wisdom you care to share.
 
If they’re only separated by chicken wire and this have been see but not touch I would assume it would be fairly easy to integrate. Also realize they will go through establishing a new pecking order amongst themselves.
 
If they’re only separated by chicken wire and this have been see but not touch I would assume it would be fairly easy to integrate. Also realize they will go through establishing a new pecking order amongst themselves.
Thanks. I'm a city boy turned country last August. I've learned so much but am still learning. I appreciate your input.
 

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom