Billie,
If your male is anything like my males, 3 won't be a problem. In the wild the males come out first and wait for the females. So, him with her would work. Not sure about the chill time. Someone else will have to help you with that. I'm guessing at least 6-8 weeks. Depend on what temperate zone they came from. Longer time North and shorter time South. I'll be quiet now.