Five tips for merging flocks

The BHWT says respect the social groups hens form and work with their natural behaviour

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Merging chicken flocks can be a stressful process for you, your existing flock and the new hens you're introducing to your home. Hens form strong social groups and establish a pecking order within just a few days of being introduced to each other. In the absence of a cockerel this will range from a top (dominant) hen down to a lowest ranking hen. Once each hen knows its place in the flock and they should get on fine.

Before getting new hens we'd always recommend thinking about your setup, as it's far easier to merge flocks when you are able to keep them separate from one another for a week or so. If you need advice on this, please call our friendly Rehoming Team who will be happy to assist.

ESTABLISHING A FLOCK OF EX-BATS

When you collect your ex-bats, it is important to realise that although these girls might have come from the same farm, they may not know each other. A new pecking order will need to be established and this can take a few days to settle.

Initially the hens will be more interested in their new surroundings and at this stage they are normally polite to each other. However, within a few hours one or more birds may start to exert dominance by pecking or attacking the others, keeping them away from food and chasing them around the run. The dominant hen may also jump on backs and grab the combs of other birds; not ladylike behaviour, but an effective way to assert authority.

Merging two flocks will depend entirely on your set up, so please ask our re-homing team for advice. The ideal method is to give both flocks equal knowledge of a common shared area so all hens are on neutral territory when they meet. Knowing the best places to hide can really make a difference to a new hen entering an established flock, so give her time to learn the shortcuts and places to escape bullying.