When can these ducks go outside?

[Buster]

I have three ducks that are just starting to get their feathers but still have a lot of down. They are getting really big! At what point can they be kicked outside?

 

[Buster]

Are they the same as chickens and need to wait until they are fully feathered? Can anyone answer?

 

[ChickenToes]

I think ducks can handle colder temperatures better than chickens, so you can probably put them outside with a light in case they get too cold.

 

[Broke Down Ranch]

It depends how cold it is. Mine have always been fine outside after the first few weeks. They have really heavy down and don't need the heat as much as chicks. If you aren't getting real cold at night they should be able to go out at about 3 weeks

 

[Buster]

I think that the temps at night here have been down in the 40's. I don't know how cold that is compared to everyone else's cold, but it's actually pretty warm for a night time temp here. These ducklings are about 6 or 7 weeks old.

 

[ChickenToes]

I had my 7 week old chickens outside and the temp dipped down to 25 two nights in a row and they were fine. They had a light for heat.

 

[Katy]

I've always kicked my ducks out sooner than chicks. They don't need as much heat or heat for as long as chicks do. If you put them out with a light I'm sure they'll be fine. Ducks are much hardier than chickens.....even my call ducks which in the duck world are probably the least hardy duck.

 

[Buster]

Ok I guess that means I better get to work and get a shelter built for these guys. Thanks for the info. Their days of living in my garage are numbered.

 

[Katy]

I guess I didn't answer your feathering question......I've never waited till they were fully feathered.

 

[Buster]

A related question:

Do they need a full fledged coop? What kind of shelter will suffice?