I have 3 duckings who are 7 weeks old.
My girls' routine over here basically consisted of me trying to get them to swim and forage while I get a free minute to do housework or take care of my 2 human children. It usually ended up with all 3 quacking bloody murder at our patio door, until I came outside and they'd merrily be on their way doing whatever they were doing.
What I realized is that they need some sort of enclosed space to feel safe, or their human keeping watch. I bought one of those nylon pop up puppy runs with a mesh zip on roof to move around the yard with water, if I couldn't be outside to watch them. They'd happily run in there after treats and just hang out quietly. As soon as I unzipped it, back to loud distress quacks if I wasn't a wings-length away! So temporarily, until they live outside for good, I'd suggest a secure outdoor pen or space for them.
I thought they'd never adjust to their new run and house, especially since it is at my in-laws home, where they are not used to the sounds and smells of the land. We can't have livestock in our town, 5 mins from my in-laws, but wanted to raise ducks for eggs as my daughter is allergic to chicken eggs. It was always the plan, and the older they got, the more I dreaded taking them. I thought for sure they wouldn't adjust easily. Turns out, after just 2 days, I was wrong. They stuck to the pool, the only familiar item, for the entire first day. But now are merrily exploring all the fun little treat stations and nooks and crannies they have. The first day, I was there basically all day, and they quacked when I left. The second day, I called to them when I arrived to let them out of their house, and they didn't quack at all. Just patiently waited, ran out the house, and started exploring! I miss not seeing them as much but am also thankful for some time to clean MY own house instead of all the duck poop, lol!
They will adjust, even if it takes a few days to get used to.
