when can i move my ducklings outside to the barn?

[nancyv-1]

I have 2 Khaki Campbells about 5 to 6 wks old. they have been inside without a heat lamp for 2 wks.
They are getting stinky even though I clean them out with all knew bedding etc. every day. sometimes 2x. I have a barn that I plan to section off for them to stay in at night but temps go down to the mid forties so don't know if the barn will be warm enough.

 

[DuckyDonna]

Are they fully feathered yet?

 

[chkva]

What are the temps during the day? If they're fully feathered, they can withstand very cold temps. The inside of a house is usually 65+ depending on what you heat it to and they've had no heat source for 2 weeks and have been fine... I would say they're good to go.

 

[nancyv-1]

It has been unseasonably chilly this year but temps are rising to upper 70's and will get higher. I plan to move them to the back of the house where I sleep and temps are never over 65. Thank you for your input. I think they will be ok; they have each other and plan to provide a small "nest" for them to feel safe inside and warm.

 

[DuckWhisperer06]

It has been unseasonably chilly this year but temps are rising to upper 70's and will get higher. I plan to move them to the back of the house where I sleep and temps are never over 65. Thank you for your input. I think they will be ok; they have each other and plan to provide a small "nest" for them to feel safe inside and warm.

I have found that dog houses work great as shelters. Make sure it has an opening big enough for them now and when they get older. Pine shavings or straw make great bedding. We sometimes add grass clippings after we mow.

If you want them to lay eggs (are they females?) in the dog house, it’s probably best to put it in there for them now so they get comfortable with it.