The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: lesleysprite on May 06, 2017, 08:17:18 pm

Title: When can my runner ducklings go outside?
Post by: lesleysprite on May 06, 2017, 08:17:18 pm

Hi, I have 4 3-week old runner ducks, they currently live in a dog cage  in the house. On days when I am home and the weather is ok the tray comes out heir cage, it becomes a run and they spend the day outside on the grass (with their heat plate). What age can they go outside permanently -assuming they still have a heat plate and a secure house attached to a secure run? I have read 10 - 12  weeks, but is that without a heat source?

Title: Re: When can my runner ducklings go outside?
Post by: twizzel on May 08, 2017, 10:10:44 am

They ought to be fully feathered so 8-10 weeks is probably about right. When they still have that very soft duckling down it doesn't insulate them and they can get very cold. If they have a heat source they could probably go out sooner, 5-6 weeks maybe?

Title: Re: When can my runner ducklings go outside?
Post by: greengumbo on May 09, 2017, 12:09:13 pm

Our ducklings go out about 5 - 6 weeks off the heat. I wouldnt do it for ducklings in winter but from march onwards its always been fine for us.

Title: Re: When can my runner ducklings go outside?
Post by: lesleysprite on May 10, 2017, 07:26:43 am

Thanks both, it's no problem for them to have their heat plate outside so sounds like 5-6 weeks should be fine