When to let ducks free range?

[Mtnboomer]

Hello again! As I have posted before, I have 4 growing ducklings about 9wks old. They have been moved to a temporary outdoor enclosure with house and have been in there for about 2 wks. They seem to have figured out the going inside at night business and have been doing so routinely for the last week. Ultimately want to free range them, but they must return to house at night to avoid predators. Will they continue to do so after fence comes down? How long must this routine continue before i let them roam?

 

[Mtnboomer]

I should also mention that they have no interest in people. We have tried handling them, offering treats (which they love so long as you step away after giving them) and they are still terrified when approached. I have 2 small children and a 5mo old puppy that are sure to harass them but will never catch them (at least not our free range chickens). 2 of the ducks do settle down after you catch them, but once free range that is likely impossible

 

[chickens really]

Ducks are not chickens so many times won't return to the house to sleep. I have to put mine back in each time. I say bedtime and they all go back to the Run.