Accidental duck momma needs help with hatching

[LizD1]

These 2 ducks are what survived from a nest of a wild duck who was killed (we don't know by what) in the parking lot of my daughters school. We had been watching the momma duck and her eggs for awhile and on a Monday we saw she had been killed right next to her nest. We didn't know how long she had been dead. I called many organizations, DNR, humane society and a wildlife refuge and all refused to take eggs. We decided to try and incubate these eggs just to give them a chance. Most of the eggs were dead. These 2 made it to hatching.
They are a mix of a mallard and who knows what. Their mom was size and shape of a mallard, but a much darker brown color.
Does that help with knowing what is wrong with the leg?

 

[LizD1]

Yesterday I drove out to a nearby hatchery and bought 2 mallard ducklings to make this duck family more complete. They were all immediately in love. I will post pictures soon.

 

[Lacrystol]

These 2 ducks are what survived from a nest of a wild duck who was killed (we don't know by what) in the parking lot of my daughters school. We had been watching the momma duck and her eggs for awhile and on a Monday we saw she had been killed right next to her nest. We didn't know how long she had been dead. I called many organizations, DNR, humane society and a wildlife refuge and all refused to take eggs. We decided to try and incubate these eggs just to give them a chance. Most of the eggs were dead. These 2 made it to hatching.
They are a mix of a mallard and who knows what. Their mom was size and shape of a mallard, but a much darker brown color.
Does that help with knowing what is wrong with the leg?

NO

 

[Lacrystol]

Has he gotten any better with the leg? Sometimes it take a day or two before you see them start using it?

 

[LizD1]

@Lacrystol
He has been getting better with the leg. I've seen him scratching with it and stretching it a little. He is getting around faster but only uses one leg. He is eating and drinking well. I am open to suggestions!!

@

 

[Lacrystol]

@Lacrystol
He has been getting better with the leg. I've seen him scratching with it and stretching it a little. He is getting around faster but only uses one leg. He is eating and drinking well. I am open to suggestions!![B]https://www.backyardchickens.com/content/type/61/id/6390186/width/200/height/400[/B][/QUOTE]

I don't know what you attached but I can't open it.

 

[LizD1]

I don't know what you attached but I can't open it.

Sorry! I am technologically impaired. It was just a picture of the original 2 ducks and their 2 new buddies. I'll try again. Any input about the leg would be appreciated.

 

[corrinekay]

You've done such a good job so far. Everyone makes some rooky mistakes. They would have definitely died if you hadn't intervened. Did the mom have any color on her wings, or any noticeable characteristics? They look to be doing good other than the leg, but it should heal with time and the other things you have been doing to help. Make sure they stay hydrated, but use a small enough bowl or waterer to were they can't swim or drown in it. Keep them warm and as they get older you can lower the temperature about 5° each week. Just make sure they have a place to get away from the heat if they are too hot. I'm sure you know most of this with all research you have been doing. Good luck and good job!!

 

[LizD1]

@corrinekay Thank you so much for your support and kind words! This has been quite the adventure!
I appreciate the advice. I have been researching quite a bit, but hearing the important facts more than once makes it easier to learn. The momma duck was the size of a mallard. She had a dark brown beak, very dark brown body with some medium brown around her neck and underbelly. The feathers in her nest were gray and black. I think she was a mutt! The park near her nest is full of mixed ducks!

 

[corrinekay]

I was wondering, some of the babies look to be a mallard mix and some black sweeds or silkie. Multiple ducks could have laid in the same nest, so you never know. Time will tell My momma mallard is hatching some babies herself. Just a few more days. Getting excited and nervous!!!!