Introduction of new hens into an existing flock can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. An existing flock has a 'pecking order' and when new birds are introduced the pecking order must be re-established. Usually this goes well with no major issues, but just in case it doesn't here are some tips that might help. It is important to note that these are just tips that have worked for us. Above all it is important to keep a close eye for the first few days.
- Make sure any bird you introduce is strong, healthy and big enough to hold it's own amongst the existing flock. Introducing too young of a bird or too small of a breed is not always a good idea.
- Ideally introduce more than one bird at a time, particulary if the existing flock is more than a handful of birds.
- Introduce birds at dusk, by putting the new birds into the hen house when the other birds are roosting for the night.
- Provide distractions such as additional scratch food or treats for the entire new flock.
If after this you feel there is still too much bullying is going on, remove the 'bullier' (bird doing the bullying) rather than the bird that is getting bullied. This is important as if you remove the bullied, you really have to start from scratch again if you are going to keep that hen. Keep the bird you removed sperate for a day or two before re-introducing it and hopefully this time things will be more settled.
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