Do you mix your chickens?

[StarspaXxX]

Question from a newby about to take the plunge and buy first chickens.

If you're buying from the same place and they've been reared together, is mixing some breeds okay when you have a snall number? How does pecking order work?

[CatsMother66]

Mixing is fine if they have been reared together in the same field. Some breeds will have certain characteristics ie tendency to feather pick/ go broody etc, best ask the breeder for advice depending on what chickens they have. Pecking order will happen but will only last a few days until established. Chickens can get nasty so keep an eye on them for any injuries caused as an injured hen will become a target for all. It’ll be mostly a few pecks, chasing away but will soon settle down. It seems stressful as they’ll be squawking and flapping whilst it goes on but only step in if a chicken is hurt.

[StarspaXxX]

Thank you!

[cjpark]

I like having a mix of breeds! it helps me know who's laying as they have different coloured eggs, it gives me a more constant supply and they look pretty! Just get birds that have been raised together and you should be fine.

[StarspaXxX]

Thanks, I think that's my plan!