[johnys]

We had two chicks hatch Feb 14 how old should they be before they can join the rest of the flock

[HesterF]

My broodies tend to leave them to themselves by about 2 1/2 to 3 months old so I guess they have to fend for themselves in the pecking order by then. Only thing is they should still be on growers pellets whereas the rest of the flock is on layers, I imagine, so you have to think through how they'll feed. Also be carful how you introduce them - a young pair joining an older bunch could make an easy target.

H

[chrismahon]

Not before they are laying Johnys, so 26 weeks perhaps. That assumes they are pullets and not cockerels of course. At that stage they will be well grown, just off rearer pellets and should be able to fend better for themselves. They will be bullied, so they will need an extra feeder and drinker.

[johnys]

Many thanks for the information one is a cockerel so he wont be going in with the rest he will be sold,he is a Rhode Island Red  at the moment they are outside in a pen next to the main flock so they can see each other but no contact