We live on a small lake where ducks lay eggs in nests in peoples yards. We had one in our back yard...a Pekin and she sat on the nest with about 7 eggs for almost 4 weeks Then 3 days ago, the eggs started to hatch and moma left with only 3 babies. 4 eggs remained in the nest...a day went by and she did not return, but a baby was hatching. I had chased a black snake with a broom twice during the 4 week period and thought the hatchling would not survive from the snake or the 2 local hawks. So we rescued the little guy and hes doing great...at least we think he is. I went to tractor supply and got some poultry feed for ducks and he has quite an appetite. We have a tub for him and he appears to love the water..and he follows us like a new puppy when we take him out.
Sadly the 3 babies that went with the mom, are no longer with her. As beautiful as they are, I wish I could get rid of the hawks..
We also have mallards that seem to keep their young but the white ones (pekin) are not that lucky. We put the baby near moma but moma seemed the show no interest.
So we are trying to figure out whats best for the little guy that we call Shamus. Can we wait til he gets too big for the hawks and let him loose in the pond ?
We welcome all ideas and or advice.
Thanks
