[RobinL]

Is it ok to mix various types of hybrid without causing problems ?

We previously had 6 hens, a Maran, Light Sussex, Buff Sussex, Black Rock and 2 Bluebells. We had assorted problems with feather pecking and we ended up giving one away as it was picked on so much.

We are about to get some more and would like probably 4 of various hybrids - if they are introduced at the same time ( POL ) - is that ok or is it less likely to have feather pecking when they are all one type ?

Thanks

[joyfull]

you can mix any breeds together however they will still have to sort out which of them is the top hen and sadly you will still have at least one at the bottom of the pecking order.

[snow white]

In my opinion some mix better than others.  Bluebells are easily picked on and black rock are a hardy bird that would probably do picking!  But all birds have different personalities so you could have a different experience.  For a hopefully peaceful coexistence pick a warren type hen.

[Prod]

In my opinion some mix better than others.  Bluebells are easily picked on and black rock are a hardy bird that would probably do picking!  But all birds have different personalities so you could have a different experience.  For a hopefully peaceful coexistence pick a warren type hen.

When I started with my first hens I had a bluebell, columbian blacktail, cream legbar, Ancona and Buff Sussex.  I have lost and bought others but Ronnie, my Bluebell, was and still is the top girl. She is not aggressive but she does keep the others inline. Any new girls have always settled in fairly quickly, after quarantine, but they do all free range so that may be different if you were keeping them enclosed or in a run.

[joyfull]

yes free ranging does help and my Bluebelle used to also be the boss of mine. Now my Cuckoo Marans is now top bird not through aggression but nobody argues with her

[Sassy]

As hybrids are likely to be vaccinated and many pure breeds are not,  :)be aware that it is not ideal to mix vaccinated and unvaccinated birds