How to choose a new companion?

[RascalAndJemima]

I’m heartbroken to say that I found one of my ducks had died during the night. I had both of my girls from 3 days old and they were my first babies. Since then we have got dogs and a human baby, but I’m so so upset to have lost one of my girls so suddenly. She was fine yesterday so it was such a shock to find her this morning From reading what I can today, it’s not too unusual for a duck to die suddenly? I was expecting for her to be with us for so much longer

I’m also deeply concerned about my remaining girl as they spent every second together for the last 7 years. I’m aware it would be best to get Jemima a new companion as soon as possible but I want to get it right.

Should I get one or two? How old? I was wondering whether to get 2 younger female ducks to join her? Are any specific breeds a good idea? Jemima is an Aylesbury and Rascal was a Khaki Campbell.

Where’s the best place to look? I’m in Derbyshire, U.K.

Also, it feels awful to be getting more ducks so soon. I’m sobbing as I’m typing this. Photo attached of my son with our gorgeous Rascal - she will be so missed

 

[Farmgirl283420]

Oh so sad that's so sad I'm so sorry! I don't know anything about ducks however just wanted to tell you I'm sorry my chickens are my babies as well I love them so much and I'd be heartbroken if anyone died

 

[fluffycrow]

Getting two would be best, but truly whatever you can find. Two younger females would do great. So sorry you are going through this right now

 

[HollowOfWisps]

At 7 years old there is a good chance she passed of old age. Since your other duck is also older I would go with two more females that are younger. That way if something happens to your older girl you won’t have to go through trying to find another companion right away. I am sorry for your loss

 

[RascalAndJemima]

Oh so sad that's so sad I'm so sorry! I don't know anything about ducks however just wanted to tell you I'm sorry my chickens are my babies as well I love them so much and I'd be heartbroken if anyone died

Thank you - that’s so kind. I imagine that people who’ve never owned ducks or chickens would never believe how upset we are

 

[Farmgirl283420]

Thank you - that’s so kind. I imagine that people who’ve never owned ducks or chickens would never believe how upset we are

I know people think it's no big deal just a bird but they're soooo much more then that they're friends and family!

 

[RascalAndJemima]

Getting two would be best, but truly whatever you can find. Two younger females would do great. So sorry you are going through this right now

At 7 years old there is a good chance she passed of old age. Since your other duck is also older I would go with two more females that are younger. That way if something happens to your older girl you won’t have to go through trying to find another companion right away. I am sorry for your loss

Oh really? I had in mind that they can live to 15-20 years of age. And I’ve been going over and over what we could have done differently which may have helped her
Yes - that’s what we thought too. We have found some large lumps on our other girl after giving her a thorough check over so we need to sort her out before we go ahead with getting her companions. She’s booked at the vets on Tuesday - I hope it’s nothing too serious!

 

[RascalAndJemima]

I know people think it's no big deal just a bird but they're soooo much more than that they're friends and family!

Absolutely when they were ducklings I used to be so excited to get home to them and they would sleep on my shoulders or my lap!

 

[RascalAndJemima]

Getting two would be best, but truly whatever you can find. Two younger females would do great. So sorry you are going through this right now

Thank you. I think it will be possible to get two younger females.

 

[Farmgirl283420]

Absolutely when they were ducklings I used to be so excited to get home to them and they would sleep on my shoulders or my lap!

I don't have ducks but I Have chicks and they love to spend time with me!