5 weeks old orphans

[Muscovy-palooza]

These 5 week old muscovy babies were orphaned 3 weeks ago when their momma disappeared. I put them in the coop, in a separate crate, with 3 broody muscovy hens. After a new clutch was hatched I moved them out.of the crate and into the common area in the coop. They have done fine however they have not willingly come out of the coop to forage. I have a couple of portable kennels that I purchased to use to separate the different broods. I have put poultry netting around so that the tiny babies can't get escape.

At what age can I allow the two orphans out to go forage and get in the pond? Their dad is around and may very well protect them. I was hoping that the new momma may take them in but she wasn't willing. I do believe that they will come back to the coop at night as they have been in there since they were born.

 

[chickens really]

They definitely need heat and a better set up till ready to go out..

 

[Muscovy-palooza]

They definitely need heat and a better set up till ready to go out..

I am trying to figure out when they are good to go out to forage during the day. They will go back to the coop at night just as they have all along. The pen is a transition from coop to outside just for daytime.