Ducklings in cold weather

[YinYang907]

I have a quick question. My two ducklings are about a week old. I want to take them out in the backyard to run around a bit, but I don't know if it's too cold for them. It's currently 41 outside and sunny. I was hoping to take them out a few times before it started snowing. Is it possible for them to run outside? Even if it's just for a bit? Thanks for the help. I'm still quite new to this.

 

[HollyDuckFarmer]

One week is very little. They are just babies! I would say that if they were with a mother duck, she would most likely take her babies out in those temps. But ducklings raised by humans, without mother ducks are very different. I would say no, keep them in until they are fully feathered. 85'F the first week. 80'F the second week, 75'F the third week, 70'F the fourth week, etc. Lower the temp by 5'F each week until they are fully feathered.

 

[Going Quackers]

If they had a mama it would be different but i wouldn't in those temps and that age. I know it's hard, but they could chill and that is a leading cause of death amongst young.

 

[YinYang907]

Thank you all for your input. I'm glad I asked first. I'm sure they'll have a blast in the spring

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

 

[NanaDee1264]

Good to know about ducklings and cold weather. I'll be sure to remember this when I finally get my Wilbur!

Nana Dee

 

[Going Quackers]

You won't have to wait till spring just more feathering, basically when there off the heat lamp, when they have a mama it's different as she can sense and should bring them in and is THE best heater available.

There is some good temp info in this sticky.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/750869/raising-and-caring-for-ducklings#post_10611711