From Pen to Pasture: Ducklings First Free-Range Day

Today is a big milestone on the homestead – the ducklings first free-range day!

Corvis (formerly known as Blondie) recently turned 4 weeks old, and the rest of the flock is just ahead of him at 5 weeks. They’ve been exploring the outdoors for the last couple weeks, but always inside pens. Today, we opened the gate and let them roam completely free for the first time, and they took off like they’ve been waiting for this day their whole lives.

They wasted absolutely no time diving into the clover, darting through dandelions, and chasing every bug they could spot. They explored every inch of that yard, leaving no blade of grass untouched. Watching them roam, explore, and stretch their wings felt like a glimpse of who they’re becoming. They’re growing fast—more independent, more curious, and more confident every day.

Soon enough, they’ll be fully feathered out and big enough to join the adult flock out back. But for now, this new front yard freedom is a perfect balance of freedom and safety – they’re able to soak up the sunshine, learn the land, and make the most of this new freedom while still staying safe.

Watching them explore the wide world around them reminds me that growth doesn’t always happen in big leaps—sometimes it happens one small, joyful waddle at a time.

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Thanks for following along with the wild life on our little patch of land. Whether it’s ducklings, garden beds, or herbal remedies, there’s always something new growing around here.

Curious about raising ducklings? Here’s a great guide to get you started.