Flock stress

[Chicks4Ducks]

I received 12 miniature apple yard ducks in May. They are now 10 weeks old and I can tell males from females. They are a very bonded group and I am now worried about any stress separating them might cause. I need to thin the flock and do not know what to expect. Are they going to go nuts? Or am I gonna be more stressed then they will be? Any age ok to break them up?

 

[Amiga]

Oh, my. Well, there will be some stress, I would think. Managing your own might help - seems my ducks pick up on it when I am not at my best. There's just more confusion in the flock when I am a little off.

Aside from that, just be as compassionate and observant as you can - minimize the amount of moving around everyone has to do, if possible. Give treats, talk to them.

I hope someone with more experience can offer some guidance.