Broody Duck attacked by two males Need Help Please.

[Jenny28]

I have a friend who has 3 ducks, two drakes and the one female. The female had been sitting on her eggs and one day the two drakes attacked her to almost the point of death. My friend is giving me her eggs to incubate because they only have a week left and she is leaving for vacation today. A few questions here, anyone know why the drakes attacked her? I have incubated many chicken eggs, but never duck eggs is the temp and humidity the same? Also, do you think they are likely to hatch after being moved to the incubator? Any help, suggestions, advice GREATLY appreciated!

 

[Deleted member 94844]

The drakes were fighting over her and they *will* kill females if the ratio is unbalanced. There should ideally be 3-4 females for every drake, never more drakes than females. They are frequently drowned by males fighting on their backs or killed as a result of overmating. That girl needs to be separated or one of the drakes rehomed.

There is a thread in this section regarding incubation... hopefully someone with it bookmarked will reply.

 

[Amiga]

The female needs to be separated a.s.a.p. Her life could be at risk. This is a case where some chicken wire dividing the duck shelter could come in really handy. Make sure both sides have fresh water and feed. Don't let the drakes at her.

I know these are your friend's ducks, but someone ought to be looking out for that girl's safety.

The eggs can be put in an incubator and if they were not damaged in the skirmish, may be fine.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/491013/goose-incubation-hatching-guide-completed

 

[Jenny28]

Thanks to both of you. They have been separated since it happened, and the female is actually in my barn now while they are on vacation. The eggs are in the incubator. I guess it's just wait and see now.

 

[Amiga]

Thanks to both of you. They have been separated since it happened, and the female is actually in my barn now while they are on vacation. The eggs are in the incubator. I guess it's just wait and see now.

Duck hero!!!!