Hello!! I have three baby mallards that we rescued (momma duck abandoned them after an unfortunate incident with the farm tractor). They will be 2 weeks old this coming Saturday. Momma duck is one we raised last year, she flew away over the winter and returned to us this spring. Therefore, she is very familiar with us and friendly as well. Currently on the pond is momma duck and another female.

My question is twofold; one: when should we release the babies? and two: will the adult ducks attack the babies when we release them?

The babies are swimming, eating ducky chow and bugs they manage to catch...they are really getting too big to be indoors any longer. If I shouldn't release them just yet, do you think it's advisable to move them outside, maybe into the chicken coop? Well, then there's another question, will my rooster bother them? Ugh.

thanks for any help,

Rebecca