Springtime Chicks: Smoothly Integrating Pullets into Your Established Flock (and Keeping Them Healthy!)

Spring is in the air, and for many of you, that means the exciting arrival of new pullets! While some chicken enthusiasts choose to raise new birds from chicks or even hatch out their own, others choose to buy pullets, or hens that are older, in order to shorten the time it will take to start seeing them lay eggs. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or a first-timer, adding new birds to an existing flock requires a bit of planning and patience. We're here to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth transition for everyone (including your older hens!). Plus, we'll touch on how our black soldier fly larvae can support your flock's health during this time.

Why the Fuss? Chicken Pecking Order 101

Chickens are social creatures, but they establish a strict pecking order. Introducing new birds disrupts this hierarchy, leading to potential aggression and stress. Older hens may see the pullets as a threat, resulting in pecking, chasing, and general bullying.

The Gradual Introduction Method: Patience is Key

1. Quarantine First: Before introducing your new pullets to the main flock, quarantine them for at least 30 days. This allows you to monitor them for any signs of illness and prevent the spread of disease to your existing birds. A separate coop or pen is ideal.
2. Visual Introduction: After quarantine, place the pullets in a separate, adjacent run or coop where they can see and smell the existing flock without direct contact. This allows them to acclimate to each other's presence.
3. Supervised Introductions: Once the birds seem accustomed to each other, begin supervised introductions in a neutral, spacious area. Choose a time when your older hens are less active (late afternoon is often good).
4. Increase Time Gradually: Start with short introductions, gradually increasing the time spent together over several days or weeks. Observe closely for signs of aggression.
5. Plenty of Space and Resources: Ensure your coop and run have ample space, feeders, and waterers. This reduces competition and stress. Multiple feeding and watering stations are a must. Also make sure that there are no tight spaces where they may get stuck.
6. Distractions: Provide distractions like scratch grains, treats, or new toys to keep the birds occupied and reduce aggression.
7. Nighttime Introduction: A common technique is to place the pullets into the coop with the older hens after dark when they are roosting. This can help them wake up together as a flock.
8. Be Patient: The integration process can take several weeks. Don't rush it!

Supporting Flock Health with Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL)

Introducing new birds and the resulting stress can impact your flock's immune system. That's where our black soldier fly larvae come in!

• Protein Powerhouse: BSFL are packed with protein, essential for growth and recovery, especially for your young pullets.
• Immune Boost: The chitin in BSFL supports immune function, helping your flock stay healthy during this stressful time.
• Delicious and Nutritious: Chickens love BSFL, making them an excellent treat and a valuable source of nutrients.
• Stress Reduction: Providing a high value treat like BSFL can also provide a distraction, and lower stress levels.
• Improved Feather Growth: The high protein content of BSFL is very helpful with feather growth, which is important for pullets and birds recovering from pecking damage.

Tips for Success:

• Monitor your flock closely for signs of aggression, such as excessive pecking, feather pulling, or isolation.
• If severe aggression occurs, separate the birds and reintroduce them more slowly.
• Provide plenty of hiding places in the run, such as shrubs or boxes.
• Ensure your coop is well-ventilated and clean to prevent disease.
• Consider adding extra feeders and waterers, to prevent birds from fighting over access.

BSFL from Egg Brigade are an excellent source of protein, fats and essential minerals always harvested in the United States under strict quality-control. Available as a single purchase or ongoing subscription, we offer 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, and 10lb options.

We would love to see what other DIY ideas you come up with as you raise your chicks. Let us know in the comments.