I have 8 Pekins who free range in my pond. They "escaped" from the first pen area when they were about 3 weeks old and headed for the pond. They have lived in and around the pond since last March with no issues. I built them another duck house that has plenty of room and has a nice thick layer of hay. They don't seem to care much for it and rarely go inside. They have layed a few eggs there but usually we have the Great Easter Egg Hunt every morning looking for them all around and in the pond. Usually in different locations every day.
With their first Winter coming I'm wondering what to do about it. They don't seem to like the house but will they seek shelter there when it gets bitter cold and the winds start blowing? Do I need to carry a hatchet to chop ice looking for eggs or will they lay them inside? Will they adapt to a frozen pond? Fortunately, I'm told they won't fly away but I want them to be safe and content during the long cold spell.
Any ideas on what, if anything, I can do to make them more comfortable and endure the coming season?
Thanks.
With their first Winter coming I'm wondering what to do about it. They don't seem to like the house but will they seek shelter there when it gets bitter cold and the winds start blowing? Do I need to carry a hatchet to chop ice looking for eggs or will they lay them inside? Will they adapt to a frozen pond? Fortunately, I'm told they won't fly away but I want them to be safe and content during the long cold spell.
Any ideas on what, if anything, I can do to make them more comfortable and endure the coming season?
Thanks.