Any Concerns For DUCK HATCHING HER OWN TODAY?

[1234duck]

Mommy duck is hatching her own clutch of eggs. Hatch day is today, 5/1 Sunday. Is there any thing I need to know or do? They are in a nest which is in a thick cardboard box Outside on the side of the house where the ducks have always been kept. I've been adding things to make as a block from the cold. when they hatch should i hang a heat lamp/bulb(red) outside for a little warmth? ~Do I need to put a water and food source outside for them with "duckling food"? Thank you, ~Julie~

 

[duckyfromoz]

Is the nest area safe? You say its on the outside- so I assume its away from where other ducks/ drakes can get near her. Its always best to leave the mother and babies in an area of their own so that momma duck can concntrate on looking after the babies without unwanted attention from others. They will need some food and water once hatched- but be very careful what you give the water in so as to make sure the duckligns dont get stuck in the container. They can become waterlogged and chill very quickly in a container that is too deep. They probably wont need extra heat- but it depends on how many she hatches- and if she is abe to cover them all properly - also if your nights are still very cold- you could provide some heat. God luck with the hatch.

 

[1234duck]

She will have the area to her self but the other ducks can only "see" her and babies. I sectioned off to separate Rouen from GC. But now it will also be another section for the drake GC only. Rouen drake isn't too fond of GC drake. But they can all only "see" each other. ~ I am using chick feeders & waterer(1/2gal. or 1 gal. jug that holds the water) with the chick starter food. }}}These I Place by the Nest? Right? With FRESH HAY SPREAD ON GROUND,IS that ok? Thats what I have on ground now but i was putting fresh/clean down now. I do have the shaved wood bedding if that would be better in the area closer to the nest and under the feeder & waterer. SHOULD I MOVE MOM DUCKS WATER BOWL A LITTLE FURTHER AWAY FROM NEST SO BABIES CANT REACH IT IM NOT SURE IF THEY CAN REACH OR NOT(probably not though). Thanks, ~Julie~