Can Ducklings be moved outside at 2-3 weeks old without needing heat?

[MysteryChicken]

They're getting pretty big for the brooder, & I'm gonna need it for some Turkey's I have coming in on the 16th, or 17th.

 

[Canadian Wind]

Still a bit young, imo, unless you're somewhere warm. And Michigan usually has weather similar to mine, so probably too early. I've been toying with tossing my one-month olds out on their fluffy fannies but only holding back because it's so cold still at night.

Would they have good shelter?

 

[MysteryChicken]

Still a bit young, imo, unless you're somewhere warm. And Michigan usually has weather similar to mine, so probably too early. I've been toying with tossing my one-month olds out on their fluffy fannies but only holding back because it's so cold still at night.

Would they have good shelter?

I use a prefab as a starter/acclimation coop, before moving chicks for grow out.

 

[WhiteTreeOfGondor]

They're getting pretty big for the brooder, & I'm gonna need it for some Turkey's I have coming in on the 16th, or 17th.

I personally do move mine outside at 2 weeks old if the weather allows. I just moved my last 2 week olds to the coop without heat once the nights were consistently in the 50s or more.

 

[MysteryChicken]

My forecast.

 

[Canadian Wind]

Yeah, your weather is almost mirroring mine.

You could try, but have a backup plan in case it doesn't work or we get a late frost, like maybe a crate to keep them in for the night. Or even do that for a week or two.

 

[WhiteTreeOfGondor]

My forecast.
View attachment 3498499View attachment 3498500

That's a little lower than it was here in SC. I don't think I'd put them out in 41 or 44 degrees. Canadian Wind has a good idea.

 

[MysteryChicken]

Yeah, your weather is almost mirroring mine.

You could try, but have a backup plan in case it doesn't work or we get a late frost, like maybe a crate to keep them in for the night. Or even do that for a week or two.

They'd be joining 7 chicks I just moved outside a few days ago.
The prefab for temporary shelter.

The windows are closable.

 

[Canadian Wind]

I think something you can bring inside with those low night temps would be better. Especially considering how dirty and wet ducks can make things.

Nice prefab!

 

[MysteryChicken]

I think something you can bring inside with those low night temps would be better. Especially considering how dirty and wet ducks can make things.

Nice prefab!

I like using thick layers of straw.

Yeah, I know. Hard keeping the brooder from looking like a swamp.