That's a beautiful photo, but you definitely need ducks in there!
Keeping in mind that I have no idea what I'm talking about, maybe start your new flock with day old ducklings-whichever you decide to go with, maybe a mix like I have. Follow duckling protocol as far as keeping them away from the other adult ducks while they're little, talking to them, all that kind of stuff. Gradually let them have some "outside" time but don't force the pond issue, at least not at first. As they get older, spend time with them near the pond but, once again, not forcing the issue. I would kinda splash my hand around it at first. Regardless of it being a pond or a Rubbermaid container filled with water, they always seemed more confident in it if I splashed around in it first. I'm sure it has to do with imprinting and following the "mommy duck." They're like most little ones and just need reassurance. I don't know if y'all swim in the pond or have a paddle boat or anything, but if you did, that would be an awesome way to help them take that initial leap into it. If not, just sit with them along the bank with the most assessable access point. Even now, mine like to enter where the water is closest to grass or the sandy area where the creek flows into it. Maybe with them seeing you at ease around it, they'll become comfortable, even if it's just simply getting a quick drink from it. It might be a slow process, but given ducks innate attraction to water, as long as nothing traumatizes them regarding the water, I can't see them resisting it for too long. It sounds like your adult ducks have been through quite a bit of trauma. It's possible they just feel better in the company of more birds. Once your new additions are old enough, introduce the older ones to them and hopefully there truly will be comfort in numbers and they'll all be swimming, diving, and whatever else ducks do in there!!! That's what I would do, at least.
I know you're frustrated with your initial experience, but I'd definitely give it another chance, but definitely provide night shelter for them. I've even got 1/2" hardware cloth covering bottom of pen. I used a slightly larger size since I was covering it with dirt and it would be much more complicated for something to stick their hands in. Regardless, raccoons are super crafty when it comes to getting into stuff and I wouldn't go any larger than 1/2", keeping 1/4" for all walls. I built it completely by myself (I'm a 39 yr old female in average health) in two days. My nephew helped me with flipping frame over to add bottom and then helped move completed pen into place, but that was it! I got most of my framing lumber from new construction sites. Most contractors are more than happy to give their "scrapes" away-they have to haul it off or pay to have it done removed so it saves them a small bit of hassle. I Didn't use any plans or anything, just researched it and saw something I liked and improvised. I added a pond in there using one of the pond thingys they use for backyard ponds. I just built a little frame for it, cut shape out of plywood, put pond in there then nailed lip of it to plywood. They have a ramp that leads them up to it. I opted for this instead of a kiddie pool so I could clean it without having to move it. I just added a drain to the pond and ran some pvc pipe to reach outside the pen. I also use Biner clips on the two door latches so no creature of the night figure out how to open it. I put a latch at the top of the door and bottom so that should something "accidentally" get one off, it still has to get through the second one at the opposite end of door. I know it sounds like overkill, but I've had raccoons get into some pretty secured places!
If you, or anyone for that matter, is interested in more photos or dimensions and such, I'm more than happy to share. Ducks are so lovable! I'd hate for anyone to lose theirs, especially if I can at least throw some ideas and options out to help them. They're so vulnerable, especially at night. We love their goofy clumsiness, but it's a huge disadvantage to them. Anyway, I've rambled way too long! I hope this helps someone!
