Introducing new chickens to an existing flock can be a tricky process, and how you do it matters! The integration phase is crucial for keeping your flock happy and stress-free. I wrote an entire blog on this process, and you can find it here!
One effective technique (I haven’t tried) that many experienced chicken keepers recommend is introducing new chickens at night. I have seen and read about many successful cases where it’s worked like a charm. Here’s why this method works and how to do it properly.
Why Introduce Chickens at Night?
Bringing new chickens in at night is like a secret mission—quiet, low-stress and way less drama! Here’s why so many chicken keepers swear by this method:
Minimized Aggression: Chickens are naturally territorial birds and are all about the pecking order! Introducing new birds during the day can lead to pecking and aggression as the established flock tries to assert dominance. At night, the flock is typically calmer, allowing for a smoother integration. This is mainly because they can’t see in the dark!
Familiar Surroundings: When it’s dark, the established chickens are likely to be in a resting state, which means they won’t immediately notice the chicks as much. When they do, they’ll be more accustomed to their presence.
Less Disruption: Moving new chickens into the coop at night means they can settle in without the chaos that often happens with daytime introductions. I have supervised many flock integrations during the day and I do agree, nighttime would probably be much less stressful!
How to Have a Successful Nighttime Introduction
Want to introduce new chickens without ruffling feathers? Here’s how to sneak them in at night with minimal stress for both your newcomers and the rest of the flock.
Prepare the Coop: Before adding new chickens, make sure your coop is clean, spacious and well-ventilated. This should be a normal thing anyway. If possible, set up a separate enclosure within the coop, like a large dog kennel, for the first few days. This gives everyone a chance to adjust without direct interaction. I like to sprinkle Happy Tract or Golden Graze around the fence so they can interact while eating treats they love!
Carefully Introduce New Chickens: Wait until it’s dark and the flock is roosting. Gently place the new chickens onto the roost. If you can, ensure that the new birds are calmly nestled near the existing flock without forcing them into close contact. Keep the lights off so they can’t see each other. If they panic or are not comfortable right away, don’t force it! It’s a good idea to introduce them to the roost before you just plop them on there.
Monitor Behavior in the Morning: The next morning, you will want to hustle out to the coop to observe how the chickens interact. While there may be minor tiffs, there could also be a big blowout. Making sure they all stay safe and healthy is super important. If they can’t get along, put the new ones back in their enclosure to keep them safe. Make sure the new chickens can eat and drink without getting bullied.
Separate If Necessary: If you notice excessive pecking or bullying, don’t hesitate to separate the new birds again. Sometimes, chickens need more time to adjust before being fully integrated.
Health Check: This is SUPER important!! Ensure that all chickens are healthy before introductions to prevent the spread of disease. Quarantine new adult birds for at least 30 days before introducing them. I actually just don’t take in adult birds who have been on other properties. The only way I grow my flock is by raising chicks and integrating them in. This is a personal preference, but has served our flock very well.
Watch for Signs of Stress: Look out for signs of distress among your chickens, such as excessive squawking or hiding. I always give our flock Flock Fixer when I integrate new chickens. This helps tremendously in times of stress. And adding new chickens to an existing flock is stressful for them!
Provide Distractions: During the early days of integration, providing distractions such as treats or new toys can help keep the birds occupied and reduce tension. The existing flock members will appreciate the new fun and will likely be a little more accommodating to the new gals.
Introducing new chickens to an existing flock at night can significantly reduce stress and aggression. In fact, I may even try it next time! Patience is key with any integration, and with the right approach, your flock will soon enough be clucking happily together in the coop!
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady
Flock Fixer - Hydrate & Restore Health During Times of Challenge
You can’t always see it, but your flock will experience a weakened immune system during times of challenge. Flock Fixer is a vitamin-rich additive that helps hydrate, restore vital nutrients and balance digestive health.
Happy Tract - For Digestive Health & Immunity
Happy Tract is a daily chicken snack that promotes digestive health in your flock. It contains oregano, cinnamon and thyme essential oils, prebiotics, multi-grains, cracked corn and sunflower seed. Treat your feathered friends to this healthy snack.
Golden Graze - For Quality Eggs & Golden Yolks Golden Graze is a daily chicken snack that promotes quality eggs with golden yolks and Omega-3 fatty acids. It contains oregano essential oils, multi-grains, cracked corn, oyster shells, marigold petals and flaxseed. Treat your hens to this healthy snack and enjoy eggsellent eggs.