ducklings: integrating flock, cold weather, adjusting them to cold weather

[SniperGoose]

I know just how you feel! I feel the same way about all my chickens and geese too! I used to have ducks too, so I remember the joy they brought me as well!
I can understand that! A lean-to would be nice! Just make sure it's fixed up so it won't collapse from wind or anything! Also I should mention that if you do ever use tarps on the run, be aware that they can get torn if there's a lot of wind. When I had my chickens in a smaller run, I tarped half of it so they could get out a little bit without having to be in the snow and those tarps got so torn up that winter from all the wind. So that's just something to be aware of should you ever choose to do so!
You're very welcome! I'm glad I could be of help.

 

[emmad783]

My ducks always did fine once they were fully feathered. I know pekins feather out fast, Ive never had blue sweddish. As long as their sleep courters doesnt have much direct wind blowing in it and they are fully feathered I wouldnt worry!

**Also I live in Tennessee so weathers a littler different. So we dont get many harsh below freezing days or snows until after the end of November.

I guess I'm worried and spoiling these new babies, my Pekins went outside fast because it was almost summer by the time they were feathered. The blue swedish seem to be growing fast like ducks do but not nearly as fast as the pekins did! They're still smaller than I would like them to be before they're outside ( I also have really come to enjoy having them close)

 

[Miss Lydia]

That is what matters most if you enjoy having them in with you then by all means. I’d much rather make sure they are ready. Pekins are super fast growers since they were produced as a table bird that is why they can have so many leg problems. Your Swedes aren’t considered a table bird like the Pekin so they don’t grow out as fast. Love to see some pics of your babies .

 

[TennesseeFarm]

I guess I'm worried and spoiling these new babies, my Pekins went outside fast because it was almost summer by the time they were feathered. The blue swedish seem to be growing fast like ducks do but not nearly as fast as the pekins did! They're still smaller than I would like them to be before they're outside ( I also have really come to enjoy having them close)

I dont blame you, I usta always keep a pullet inside the house in a large plastic crate to keep me company! Even the ducks stayed inside for a while, but like you said, the penkins grow so fast they grew themselves out of a life of luxury haha

 

[emmad783]

That is what matters most if you enjoy having them in with you then by all means. I’d much rather make sure they are ready. Pekins are super fast growers since they were produced as a table bird that is why they can have so many leg problems. Your Swedes aren’t considered a table bird like the Pekin so they don’t grow out as fast. Love to see some pics of your babies .

Thank you! They don’t stay sill for long but here are some photos of the babies

 

[Miss Lydia]

Aww they are precious

 

[emmad783]

tarped, hay down and my supervisor approves

 

[Miss Lydia]

Looking good. If supervisor approves so do I

 

[Brahmb]

I’m not a duck expert, but I stayed in a Holiday Inn Express....

My Rouens are the same age as your Swedish. The Rouen are fully feathered and have adjusted well to the cold. I’m your neighbor in the Adirondacks in upstate NY. As long as you have predators under control, the weather is a bit easier. Mine are in a kennel that I’ve tarped. They have the option of going into a doghouse inside the kennel, but they’ve refused. They also refuse to sleep in the straw I’ve provided, instead opting to sleep on their food and water mat. Even last night - when the temperature stayed below freezing all night.

I hear you about working full-time and raising a new pet type. I leave for work in the morning while it’s still dark. I come home during the day to let them out - still worrying about predators. Then I spend a couple of hours with them before dark when I get home. I have to say, though, ducks are easy. I’m enjoying it! I hope your two groups get along!

Cheers!

 

[Brahmb]

And with a supervisor like that, you’ll worry less about predators! I have my own supervisor...the main reason I have ducks!