13 year old duck

[marilyn1]

Donald is a pet outside duck. he is 13 yrs. old. Eats fine poops fine swims in pool fine does all his normal activity. notice his feathers seem to not repel water like they should and he seems wet afterwards. he has lost a little weight. Is it his age or a problem do you think. What is the life span of a spoiled outside city duck? It's a drake. He has a friend and the 2 drakes get along fine. Other ducks feathers are good.

 

[JustDucky0318]

I believe average is 16-17 years

 

[marilyn1]

Any thoughts on his feathers

 

[JustDucky0318]

Have you checked his oil gland? It could be clogged. I've heard of something called "wet duck" which is caused from lack of oil production.

 

[Going Quackers]

Is he able to bathe as much as before? i would bet aging would make movement more difficult. BOSS(black oil sunflower seeds) is good for feathers, i would check his oil gland for a blockage. Frankly, at that age? you've done very well, so overall his care sounds excellent!

what is he?(breed)

 

[Going Quackers]

I believe average is 16-17 years

Unfortunately, no.. here is a breakdown, even by breed.

http://www.hobbyfarms.com/livestock-and-pets/duck-life-span.aspx

 

[desertdarlene]

Could be an oil gland issue.

13 is pretty old for a mallard-derived breed. You must be doing something right with him to live that long.

 

[marilyn1]

Thanks. how do I check the oil glands?

 

[Miss Lydia]

Thanks. how do I check the oil glands?

Go down top of back at top base of tail you'll see the oil gland.