Hey all! So I've been doing a lot of research, but I haven't really found anything from someone in my situation, so I figured I'd make a post and see if I could get responses specific to myself. Anyways, I have wanted ducklings for as long as I can remember; things just seem to be aligning now that would make it more possible as opposed to a year ago. I am currently on summer break from college at my mom's house, and the land is nicely suited for ducks. I am looking at getting four day-old Pekin ducklings. My issues are that I work the second shift (3:30pm-midnight) M-F; I'm not sure if that would be too long away from ducklings, even if they have each other. Is there a way to adjust sleep schedules/down-time so that it'd be more resting/sleeping when I'm away? Is that ethical? There is also the fact that I am going back to school mid-August, and I wouldn't be able to bring them with me. It's worth noting, however, that my mom is a head-of-school and has mentioned before getting a "school-duck" (interesting idea, I know haha), and I figure with the Pekin's natural friendly nature combined with being nicely socialized, that the ducklings would be good companions at the school. I guess what I'm struggling with is even though I want ducklings immensely, I would hate to bring them into an unhealthy environment that would stunt their emotional growth. Thanks in advance for any help you guys may be able to give me, and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask!
Hi there! Yes, it's okay that you'll be gone for a little while; they'll be fine as long as they have each other. As for what you'll do with them when you go back to school, as long as you know what you're doing with them and someone who knows how to take care of them will be there for them, I don't see a problem there. Just remember that getting ducks is a commitment. They are dependent on you, so if you don't know what you'll do with them, you may not want to get ducks. It's important to consider everything (which it sounds like you're doing .) I think the best way to know if they're right for you is to do some research and find out for yourself what you'll need to do if you get ducks. I commend you for thinking about what's best for them and not acting impulsively.
No. I don't think it is the time to get ducklings. If your mom wants to get a duck (or two) for her school, then I'd let her do that and start from either eggs or day olds so the kids can learn as it grows. So if her school isn't year round, not a great time. Has she looked into being allowed a school duck? If you get ducks and Mom takes them on as school ducks, will she keep them at the house when you are on summer break from college doing an internship or have a job away from your home town? What about when you graduate. What if you don't stick close to home and end up where having ducks isn't ok? My suggestion is to keep researching, but wait until school is done and you know a bit what your life situation will be.
