ACV and new chicks

[Kevin565]

I have thought about using sand but I compost everything and didn't really want to add the sand. Soil is bad enough as it is. I am just using pine shavings.

In that case I would defiantly try adding a thicker layer of shavings to try to combat the water mess. Have you tried using a rabbit waterer? Ducks really only need deep water when they are eating.

 

[Trefoil]

If you build a frame with 2 x 4", 3 or 4" all the way around bigger than your waterer base, put screening on the top and down one side to use as a ramp (I use the plastic chicken fencing). It has enough room underneath for one of the plastic dishes Stoffer family meals come in, you put you duck waterer on top and the splash goes into the dish rather than your bedding. It works pretty good to keep the bedding dry.

 

[chicksooner]

If you build a frame with 2 x 4", 3 or 4" all the way around bigger than your waterer base, put screening on the top and down one side to use as a ramp (I use the plastic chicken fencing). It has enough room underneath for one of the plastic dishes Stoffer family meals come in, you put you duck waterer on top and the splash goes into the dish rather than your bedding. It works pretty good to keep the bedding dry.

Since the ducklings are big enough I went and got an aluminum pie pan and put it under the water dish. After 4 hours the bedding is still dry. They are still playing in the water but all the water goes into the pie plate for even further enjoyment but the sides are tall enough that it stays in. Your suggestion gave me the idea.