introducing new birds

[Anonymous]

hello all,
i have 5 ex batts which we have had since may and have[ foolishly perhaps] added a rode island red and a new jersey giant to our flock. the question being should i leave them to sort it out themselves or shoud i encourage entante courdial between the new girls and the old, it def seems to be an us and them at the moment, a day and a half into this so far!! .
well i look forward to your replys!!! john.

 

[Anonymous]

hi,

whenever you introduce new birds to an established flock there will be feathers flying. the more birds you introduce the better i find it goes as there is a more equal number of new and old. now you have put them together i would let them sort it out themselves but keep a close eye on things. its very important to make sure the new girls are getting their fare share of food and water. if you see any bloody or major bullying you will need to remove the hen asap. also spraying the new birds with anti feather pecking spray will help as it makes them taste grotty and another hen wont hold on to their feathers for very long! you will probably find the old ones and the new ones will never totally merge and there will always be a them and us situation among them. i have batches of hens who stick together years after being introduced to the rest. good luck!