I have had chickens for many years (currently up to 37, because I wanted 8, and well, chicken math...) They free range all day, and as soon as the sun starts to fade, they all head into the coop, and we close them up. But this year, for the first time we are getting a dozen ducks (Cayugas) who are arriving on one week. We have a 1/4 acre pond, which we figure will be great for them. Our plan has been to build a shore-side house for them, as well as sink a floating island' in the middle of the pond, which would be a good predator-free hang-out.
I am planning on giving them free range capability, like the chickens and closing them up at night. But a little voice in my head tells me that they aren't going to do those "chicken things,' and will most likely put themselves to bed under any number of the bushes overhanging the pond. So...if "home" is where the food is brought...will they come home at night?
I am planning on giving them free range capability, like the chickens and closing them up at night. But a little voice in my head tells me that they aren't going to do those "chicken things,' and will most likely put themselves to bed under any number of the bushes overhanging the pond. So...if "home" is where the food is brought...will they come home at night?