Is this Friendly ducks behavior?

[Pekinmomma]

I have 2 female Pekins both about 1 year old and I introduced 2 khaki ducklings 6 weeks old-also hopefully females- recently. I kept them separated via a plastic gardening fence so they were able to see each other but not be unsafe. The pekins didn' t seem to like the little "intruders" and quacked loudly for the first few days. On a nice day 2 days ago, I let them all run around the fenced in yard together and kept a close eye on them. 1 of the pekins has a limp and doesnt walk around much, leaving the other alone in the yard most of the time. My 1 pekin duck who is definately the more dominant duck, lowered her head and seems to charge at them but so far, hasnt escalated beyond that. The next day, she occasionally kept the khakis from the food and water but only until she had her fill then didn't seem to care. She follows them around the yard and the khakis are terrified of her. I can't tell if she is being part of the flock or waiting to pounce on them. Once she cornered them and separated the two and I watched but did not interfere. The pekin didnt do anything other than stand there and the duckling ran around her and away from her. My question is...is my pekin just establishing dominance or is this something potentially dangerous about to happen to my ducklings?

 

[Miss Lydia]

I think she is establishing dominance but on the other hand you do not want to leave young duckling alone with your adults just yet. Give them time together each day until the younger and older feel comfortable with each other treats tossed on the ground is one way to help break the ice.

 

[PirateGirl]

I think it would be good if you continue to supervise their time together. Consider setting up multiple feed and water stations too so everyone can eat and drink. The Pekin can't guard them all at once!

 

[sourland]

I agree with @Miss Lydia, that a gradual supervised integration is a good idea. Better to not take the chance that she might hurt them.