Our lone hen bantam (three-four years) has recently outlived three other hens. Could three new hens be introduced without feathers flying?
Jeremy Hobson says:
The pecking order you mention is always a potential problem – but it’s usually because of the fact that people want to add the odd bird to an existing flock rather than, as you are, adding ‘three to one’. I think things should balance out quite well in your situation: your bantam is on her own territory and the newcomers will be a little unsure of themselves on new ground. Even so, the three new birds should be introduced by being lifted onto the perch at dusk/dark and there should be enough feeding and run space (which, from your email, it sounds as if there is) for them all to get away from each other should the need arise.
