Another flock expansion thread

[MiffyWhinge]

I'd be thrilled to get more ex-batts, but under pressure (from children) to get colourful breeds. One wants sebrights, the other those funny bantam things that remind me of shire horses. How feasible is that, getting a couple of each at same sort of time? Will I need 3 runs and coops initially?

anyone?

Great name Miffy. I would keep mine separate intially to quarantine them but that is the only reason. Lots of chicken keepers introduce new chooks slowly over a period of time. Mine get mixed around in different pens and in my main free range group quite a bit because I breed. I introduce them at night and don't have any real problems.

If you are buying pure breeds I would suggest a reputable breeder - if you ask the Poultry Club they will give you details of the breed club who will be able to help you. I think you mean pekins - they're a bit like shire horses - super little banties.

ah yes pekins, thanks, am quite anxious about it as with the ex-batts it was a case of 'any outcome is better than what they've had so far' and they were all totally fine

will try to get the girls to compromise on their preferred breeds though so we only have one new lot to introduce at a time - would like SOME garden for self

We introduced a pair of pekins to our flock of 3 hybrids last year ,they are still sleeping a in separate quarters and although they free range together the big hens definately bully the little ones a bit..no pecking but intimidating them.We are now thing of adding 2 more large ones but last years trauma does put me off.The pekins though are gorgeous;fantastic for the children,very friendly and fluffy useless for eggs though!!

ours intimidate the dog and most humans so am not sure what chance little pekins would have, realistically

Pekins are feisty little birds, but I wouldn't risk mixing them with large fowl tbh. The chances of chook murder would be too great.