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Nevermind, I found the answer myself. I suppose by this we are both right. "Some people believe that the oil of the preen gland has little to do with 'waterproofing' feathers, the main function of the oil being to keep the feathers supple. Freethy, in his excellent book 'How Birds Work'...

Quote: Sorry to disagree but it isn't the oil that makes them waterproof but the structure of the feathers or down. The oil is more of a grooming aid to keep the feathers and down in top condition. If your ducklings/goslings are becoming soaking wet you need to let them preen in a warm place...

Baby ducklings not raised by their mothers should not be allowed to swim until at least six weeks of age, I personally don't go by age I wait until I see pin feathers. Mother raised ducklings get coated with oil from their mother and so can swim without becoming soaking wet. Hand raised baby...