New arrivals

[Sue]

My first hens will be arriving in 3 weeks! I'm now getting a little nervous (also very excited!!) I was wondering whether all you experienced poultry keepers out there have any advice on what is the best way to introduce my pullets to their new home. I don't know what time of day I will be collecting them yet, but reading all the information I can find, it seems to all say that I should put them straight into the house and shut them in for a couple of hours (or for the night if it's later in the day). Please could you give me your opinions on the best course of action. They will be housed in a fully enclosed run with a roof, so should I still shut them all inside? If I do shut them in, should I provide food and water inside the house for then? They will have had a journey of about 1 hour to get home in the car. Any advice gratefully received.

 

[Davidd]

Hello, if it's late in the day iwould lock them in the coop- they wont need food or water in the dark -let them out as early as you can te next day and have food and water ready- they will then know where to roost,lay etc- when you let them out, please let them come out under their own steam- i.e. dont chase them out if they dont come out immediately.
regards, David

 

[Sue]

Thanks David. What should I do if it's only around lunchtime?

 

[Davidd]

I would still lock them in for an hour or two -then do the same -open the pop hole and let them come out themselves- just check later that evening that they are in the coop- if not put then in after dark- they will get used to going in at dusk.
regards, David