Free ranging without a fence?

[daisydoes]

Hey there! I'm new here. My very first batch of ducklings are supposed to arrive in 2 weeks, and although I have plenty of time to get things figured out before they move outdoors, I just want to be prepared. I am hoping to be able to let them free range during the day and have them come back in at dinner time. We do have a few coyotes in the area (just north of Seattle, WA) but I haven't seen them during the day at all. We don't have a fence on our 1.5 acre property, and I'm wondering if this free ranging thing is going to work once my ducks are grown. Any thoughts or advice?

Plans right now are to build a 10x10 run with a 2x4 house inside of that. (5 ducklings in total)

 

[egraham]

That's a tough one. I don't doubt you could teach them to come in at dinner time but I personally only let my chickens and ducks free range when someone is home. I'm more concerned about critters and even other pets.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Your taking a big chance fencing can slow down and even stop some preds but having none just gives them full access to your ducks and the farther your ducks can wander they will. I'd make a large enclosure to keep your ducks in and only let them free range when you can be out there to watch for preds. Coyotes foxes and other preds are bold this time of year with young to feed. I have even seen where members were out with their birds and a coyotes snatched one. .

 

[Amiga]

Many have found that predators show up when they get ducks. I take my ducks on walks on our property, and when I am not with them, they are in a pen with fence across the top and bottom as well as sides. They are confined, but have plenty of room, and have protection.

 

[TLWR]

Mine free range, but we have a fence. Otherwise everything in the neighborhood will be in your yard to get your ducks.

 

[daisydoes]

Thank you guys for all of your input! I am definitely going to keep them in their run, with supervised adventures to the yard.