New Hens

New Hampshire lover · « **on:** January 17, 2009, 09:32 »

I currently have three hens which are laying fantastic but I want anothere three hens to make six. I only have one coop which is big enough for six.

Has anyone got any advice on my situation?
Thanks

naughty nick · « **Reply #1 on:** January 17, 2009, 11:35 »

go and buy some

L 11OBS · « **Reply #2 on:** January 17, 2009, 12:00 »

As above but be prepared for some squabbling as they re establish the pecking order, some suggest putting the new birds in the coop when dark, you'll still get some pecking though, my experience of this isnt too bad but some have had quite a bit of bother, dont let this put you off though as it is perfectly natural.

mumsy · « **Reply #3 on:** January 17, 2009, 17:25 »

Will the coop really take 6? Some manufacturers say more than it will really take. If its ok then go for it

All of us on here have more than we first anticipated :roll: :roll:

Keep the new ones separated but in sight of the others for the first few days, it lets them get used to one another, its also better to do this incase the new ones have any bugs, infections etc.
Good luck

Sassy · « **Reply #4 on:** January 18, 2009, 08:21 »

I agree with Mumsy. The literature said 5 to 6 hens for our ark with a run underneath and that it was not necessary to let them out! We soon learnt, the ard way, when one kept getting bullied and we had to rehome her. Now we give them much more space we do have more hens and a cockerel and have not had any more trouble!

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