[Chicken Pete]

It is me again!!
I wrote recently that we had introduced 4 new hens to our group,after quarantine period we put them together. As informed via this notice board, we got the expected 'pecking order' squabbles and as a result the 4 new ones refuse to leave the coop.
My concern is that this has now been going on for 16 days and they still refuse to leave, if I force them out they go mad to get back in,etc.
I have to feed them separately inside the coop by closing the door or the older ones go for them again.
Is this OK still or do I have other options open to me to integrate these new girls,or do I continue to let them stay as it is?
You help/advice on this would be much appreciated.

[orchardlady]

16 days is a long time and is probably too long. Would it be possible for you to let the original residents out into a separate run for a couple of hours each day so the new girls can get used to the run? All the time keeping everyone within sight of each other. I've never come across this problem lasting so long and I can well understand your concern.

[bantam novice]

I agree with Orchard Lady.  It does seem like a long time.   I can only wish you luck.