Well my RIR Guinever is doing fine after losing her pal. No signs of disease so I would like to get a couple of Barred Rocks to keep her and Poorbird company. Any suggestion for finding adult hens? I don't care if they're to old to lay (do hens get to old to lay?). Presuming I can find some how do I make sure everyone will get along?
Finding and introducing grown hens
Well I'm not sure whre to get them, although I'd try the feed store first. They probably will have some ideas, or you could put up a wanted sign.
I haven't had a lot of trouble with introdcuding new adults into the flock. There will be a little scrabbling for top spot in the pecking order, but then they should all get along. Give them a lot of space to get a break if they need to at first.
Is there anyone near you with chickens that might sell you one or two? Another thought might be to buy the 17 week olds through the mail. This is my first time with chickens so I'm not much help.
If you have an auction 'barn' near by, they often have some chicks that are a little bigger already. Some almost ready to lay or sometimes already laying.
Hi Backyardhens, Badseed and Halnik
thanks for the info
I'm am constantly amazed by the great people in these forums. You are all so wonderful. I find that I'm always telling friends and customers to check in with Dave's Garden for information on anything and everything because folks here are so great.
The Hay & Feed haven't been able to help yet - got word out to the vets and even the human society so I'm sure something will turn up.
Everyone have a wonderful summer.
Try this link:
http://reno.craigslist.org/
I did a quick check on craig's list for your area. I just spotted 1 ad for 2 free ducks. But, you can keep trying. Craig's list is like a huge, on-line swap meet/flea market, if you are not familiar with it. Check the listings under farm/garden & under pets.
Margie
Hay Try auctions they have some or the new paper or cregslist...
They have farm stuff and animals their too some times..
have a great day...
Tracey
If you have an egg farm in the vicinity, you might be able to get spent hens from them (and give them a chance at a pleasant retirement instead of just getting stewed).
Just a couple of thoughts...our local newspaper frequently has ads in the classified placed by people who want to GIVE away mature hens. Sometimes they're listed as stewing hens and usually say "you catch" or "bring your own box". As for how to introduce the new kids, wait until dark, then put the new ones in with the older ones. You can turn on the lights to do this. Turn out the lights and go to bed. The next morning it would be prudent to open the house early. They'll get along just fine, the new ones learning the ropes from the old ones. We have done this many, many times and have had no difficulties using this system. Good luck.
Check Craigs List under both pets in the community section and the farm and garden in th for sale section. I see full grown and chicks all the time.