New Duck Owner

[valfox]

In a few days i will be receiving 2 ducklings(1 pekin and 1 cayuga). I've never owned a duck before so i was wondering if it is okay to have my ducklings living in my barn at just a few days old. The barn is not heated, but i also have a little hut with a fence around it in the barn that they would be living in. I also have a heat lamp inside the hut. it is about 70-75 degrees out where i live. Would the ducklings survive okay or do they NEED to be indoors for a couple weeks? Thank you

 

[Amiga]

The advantage of having them indoors is that you can monitor them, and their environment. But some have brooders in their barn.

If they won't be exposed to mosquitoes and black flies, mites, drafts, and you can keep their bedding relatively dry, with food and water 24/7 . . . . take a look at this link.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/750869/raising-and-caring-for-ducklings#post_10611711

Welcome, enjoy, and please keep us updated!

 

[valfox]

The advantage of having them indoors is that you can monitor them, and their environment. But some have brooders in their barn.

If they won't be exposed to mosquitoes and black flies, mites, drafts, and you can keep their bedding relatively dry, with food and water 24/7 . . . . take a look at this link.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/750869/raising-and-caring-for-ducklings#post_10611711

Welcome, enjoy, and please keep us updated!

Thank you!! that was very helpful and i plan to keep them inside now

 

[Amiga]

One of the biggest struggles for most of us is water management. They are waterfowl, after all. Gosh I love my ducks!

Anyway, Here are some links I have found most helpful. Should I ever brood ducklings again, I will rely heavily on some or all of these ideas.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/641902/created-a-water-saver-for-my-duck-brooder

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/679433/water-water-everywhere/10

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/858161/feed-water-solution-for-brooder#post_12901321

http://frankiemakes.blogspot.ca/2012/06/watering-solution-for-ducks.html

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/259876/do-your-ducks-have-water-at-night/10#post_13568197

 

[featheredfashions]

Congrats on the ducklings!!! I sent you a PM about some diapers and accessories since I saw you will be keeping them inside. Welcome!!

 

[AllisonB]

Glad to hear you will keep them indoors for a bit -- you will be amazed at how fragile they can be. You'll be able to tell when they are big enough to go outside - it won't be long... they grow up very quickly. Enjoy their cute duckling-ness.