When Can I let my ducks and chicks out to wander?

[MrsJewelsRae]

My ducks (pekins) and chicks (barred rocks and RIR) are now 6 weeks old and I want to know when I can let them out to wander in the yard? The weather is warm and sunny here now, but I'm afraid they will run away and we'll never be able to catch them!? Do you just open their cage door and let them explore on their own, or should I shoo them out or carry them outside to introduce them to the great outdoors? We have no fence as we're in the middle of nowhere and they could be long gone in no time... BTW, I'm only going to let them do some free ranging while we're outside to keep an eye on them.

[Momma2DoubleCuties]

If your going to be out there with them then I'd say now. My pullets are 11 weeks and have been out foraging in our yard sans any heat light for about a month or so. And it's been wet and rainy most days. You'll notice if your out monitoring them if they get too cold.

[1jooj]

We encourage ours to venture out at 2 weeks if the weather is nice.

Definitely keep an eye on them at first.

[Linzie2]

Keep a close eye on them d/t hawks. Mine still stick pretty close to the pen and are easy to catch when it's time because they kinda just freeze. I guess mine are about 6 weeks old.