Introducing new chicks to flock

[GreenLaw]

Guys,
Hi, I haven't been on here for awhile, but love this place. I have 15 three week old chicks in the garage. I need to introduce them into the coop with the grown flock. Do you think the best way is to just put them in the coop tonight and when they wake up together it would go smoother? Thanks, GreenLaw

[Angela]

I wouldn't introduce three week old chicks to the flock at all. They're to old to pass as hatchlings, and to young (small) to merge with the grown flock. I would keep them separate for several more weeks to let them get some size on them.....but that's just me.

[Mary]

I agree with Angelia. The older chickens will peck them unmercifully. You can expect to find some of them injured from the pecking, possibly even killed if it isn't ended. They could free range together without as many problems and eventually be able to combine them when the chicks are very close to adult size.

[GreenLaw]

Thanks Guys, I think I will let them get alittle bit bigger before the introduction. I appreciate it!

[GreenLaw]

Update! For the last couple of weeks, I had put the chicks in a pen beside my big pen & coop. They have had awhile to hear and see each other. Now, I opened the doors and let them all free range together. As of yet, no issues, they are all doing well together. Thanks!

[Altair]

Good method of introduction. Glad to hear things are okay.